BBB of WESTERN MICHIGAN, INC
NEWS RELEASE
News Release #100110
Issued: 10-04-2010
Contact: Ken Vander Meeden
616-774-8236 or Email: bbbceo@iserv.net
www.bbb.org
BBB Encourages Donors to
“When In Doubt, Check It Out”
for 2010 Charitable Donation Season
Each year during the fourth quarter, the Better Business Bureau received hundreds of inquiries about various charities located in our region. Besides having hundreds of Local Charity Reviews in the BBB of Western Michigan database; the same www.bbb.org website will give you access to thousands of other charities who solicit nationally.
Ken Vander Meeden, local BBB President stated:
“Charities really need your support this year but the BBB has noted more requests than ever for your charitable donation. With over one million non-profit charities in the USA, competition is greater than ever, so please remember that a charity can certainly wait a few days so the donor can do some homework.”
The 20 BBB charitable standards include evaluating governance; overall effectiveness; use of finances, and fund raising tactics. Vander Meeden concluded:
“The past two years have been tough for the many reputable charities operating within our 38 county service area. As west Michigan is famous for our generosity, we get solicited by the good, bad, and ugly quasi charities as well. Everyone wins if you make an informed donation.”