Oregon Department of Justice: Worst Charities List

‘Tis the season to be giving, so give wisely:

1) Attorney General’s Tips for Charitable Giving

2) Oregon Attorney General Announces Oregon’s 20 Worst Charities

“… Currently, there are nearly 16,000 charities registered with the Oregon Department of Justice, and many of them are actively seeking donations. By law, Attorney General Kroger cannot dictate how charities spend your money, but he is providing Oregonians some basic advice (see attached) to ensure your gifts go to a worthy cause.

Before donating, it is important to make sure the organization is registered with the Attorney General’s Office by searching the Department’s online database or by calling 971-673-1880. You can also visit www.guidestar.org, a national clearinghouse of information on charities and their performance.

Attorney General Kroger also cautions Oregonians to watch out for solicitations that thank you for your previous support and charities that send invoices claiming you made a recent pledge when you didn’t. These methods are intentionally confusing and dishonest ways to gain donations….” (link to full media release)