| Holiday Giving |
|
The holiday season is a time for increased solicitation from charitable organizations intending to help those in need. The Secretary of State’s Office recognizes the fact that West Virginians have a known history for their generosity. However, in order to protect the citizens of West Virginia from fraudulent organizations we urge caution when giving to charities. We encourage citizens to make sure the soliciting charity is legitimate by asking questions such as the following:
- Is the organization registered with the Office of Secretary of State?
- What percentage of the donation is going to the actual cause and how much to administrative costs?
- Is the caller being paid by a fundraising company?
Before writing a check or giving credit card
information for your donation demand that the above information
be given to you; in writing is best.
The Secretary of State’s Office has an excellent website where
extensive information may be obtained via the Charities
Database. The database contains all the active Charitable
Organizations along with registration dates, purpose, how much
money is raised, and how it is disbursed.
Click
here to view a complete list of this information. For
additional information citizens may contact a staff member of
the Business & Licensing Division at 304-558-8000 who will
answer any questions relating to Charitable Organizations,
fundraising, and solicitation.
The Secretary of State’s Office encourages the citizens of West
Virginia to continue their generous spirit of giving and support
of charities they support and to have a safe and happy holiday
season.
