This is one of the holiday periods where we see saddening pictures on our t.v. and computer screens. We are reminded of the misfortune of others… many, many others. It breaks our hearts. We want so much to help, but are wary of scams.

This is not an appeal to give. I do what I can and don't talk about it. I believe the truest form of giving is anonymous at both ends.

So... We all know about the phishing schemes and how they work around disasters, etc. I've written enough about them.

Instead of talking about that stuff, I’d like to tell you about a site that works in your favor: http://www.charitynavigator.org/

There’s an A-Z directory, or you can check out a charity by typing in its name. It has a “Top Ten” list by topic, as well as the 10 best practices of savvy donors, 7 questions to ask a charity before donating, even how to stop soliciting calls and mail, etc.

Also, you can examine how much of the donations to it actually reach the people who need it. This site is really great.

So.... just protect yourselves, folks… and share the joy, if you're so minded.

Some screenshots: