I read this on another post. QUESTION, should boy scouts still be considered as a charity even though this group discrimanates against other people( gay).

A charity is an institution that benefits society in some way. The Boy Scouts, even though they are being criticized for loyalty to their moral obligations, are still a charity because of what the organization promotes -- education, service to others, physical fitness, and living morally. These values are beneficial to the general public, and as a non-profit organization, the Boy Scouts are a charity.

Well, I guess I agree here. I don't necessarily agree with the Boy Scout's "moral obligations," nor do I understand why they only seem to camp in torrential downpours, but I DO see that they benefit society.
I suppose the bottom line is, if you don't agree with what they stand for, don't support them. The same goes for the Salvation Army or the Republicans or the World Wildlife Fund. If you don't agree with them, don't give them money. They are still charities and beneficial organizations (well, maybe not the Republicans...).

Well, I wouldn't really count any political party as a charity. The goal of a political party is to get their candidates in office, not help the general public. People give to poltical parties for political reasons, while people give to charities to help others.

This brings up the prob with United Way. They have many charities---some of which you might want to donate to and others you wouldn't. And even if you designate where you want your donation to, they will still slice up the pie the same way.

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Originally posted by MkStfnz:
Well, I wouldn't really count any political party as a charity.

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And that's why I added, "well, maybe not the Republicans..."

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Originally posted by Kelleygirl: This brings up the prob with United Way.

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I agree. I could never work for a company (like Wegmans) where part of your paycheck automatically goes to the United Way. It's a great concept, sure, but don't tell me I have to donate to them. I'll donate to the charities supported by the United Way when I can pick and choose on my own terms.

Kelleygirl, are you sure that the United Way doesn't apply our contributions to our designated charities?

The reason that I ask is because I donate a contribution weekly, and I filled out a form, stating that I wanted mine to be donated to 'suicide prevention'. I would hate to know that they are not honoring my request.

Honilov,

Yes, the amount that you designate will go to the suicide prevention organization; but the allotment of funds are known before the drive begins. In other words, this organization might have its share of total funds already determined to be 2%; they'll still get that whether you donate anything or not. But if others have chosen to give to this group also, then UW would spread it out so that the suicide prevention would still only get its 2%. IMHO, if you really want to help a particular group, writing them a personal check would insure that THEY actually receive your funds and also not become part of administration fat.

[This message was edited by Kelleygirl on 07-16-03 at 11:02 PM.]