Three Instances
Helping others through giving to charities remains one of the best ways that we can promote well-being for everyone in society, but sometimes, circumstances are such the we must be willing to say "no." Here are three instances when it is ok to say no to charity.
1. You lack the available finances.
Charities need funding. That's how they can continue to do the good work they do, but everyone must give according their own personal ability. If your finances are such that you are struggling to meet the needs of your own family, it is more than appropriate for you to say no to giving to a charity. You might be able to donate your time or expertise instead. It is imperative that donors do not put themselves or their families in financial hardship in order to give to others. Charities have limited resources and are, unfortunately, able to help limited numbers of people; although they do their absolute best to help everyone in need. If you give to one charity, and as a result, put yourself in a position of needing help from another, the purpose is somewhat defeated.
To avoid over-giving, know your budget. Some families even have a budget category just for charities. By establishing the amount they are able to give, they avoid having to make spur-of-the-moment decisions about whether their finances can support the gift. A budget also allows for a visual way to determine if there is any money left over that can be donated to charities without taking away from the needs of the family. It can also show where possible cutbacks can be made to allow for more giving. Stick to the budget when deciding whether or not giving to charity is appropriate for you at any particular time.
2. You do not support the charities mission or cause.
It is important not to give randomly. Every charity has a mission, a particular cause that it supports. It is important to donate only to charities whose values and morals compliment your own. If they don't, you should decline to give. Although the main point of giving to a charity should not be to boost your own self-worth or make you feel as though you've accomplished something, neither should it make you feel uneasy or as though you've contributed to something with which you disagree.
to avoid this, know where you stand. Have a clear understanding of your personal value system and be willing to stand up for it. When you are asked to give to a particular charity, do your research and understand that charity's mission. If you do not agree with it, do not give. Make it a priority to give only when you feel comfortable doing so.
3. You are concerned about where your donation will end up.
Most charities are experts at allocating funds to areas where they are needed most. Many times, you can even specify how you would like your gift to be spent. However, if you cannot determine where your funds are going, and you have reason to believe that the charity is not using them appropriately, you should definitely say no.
Again, do your research. Charities should be able to provide information about where funding is going if you are concerned. They should have a breakdown of funds and exactly what they are being used for. Although they might not be able to share exact dollar amounts, they should at least be able to provide percentages. Many charities have long-established reputations which you can rely on, but if you are not familiar with the charity, you should feel free to have this understanding before you donate. Have a clear picture in your mind of the kinds of things you would like to support, and also decide if there is an area where you do not want your gift to be applied.
Know yourself, your limitation, your values, and your expectations. Continue to give to charities whose missions and causes you support in any amount that you are able. At the same time, set clear boundaries for yourself about how much to give and whom to give it to. Understand that while your gifts are appreciated and needed, sometimes it's okay to say no.
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