Get info before donating

By Danielle Lynch, Daily Local News
Staff Writer

Saturday, May 22, 2010

The Chester County Fire Chiefs Association wants residents to be aware that professional solicitors have been asking for donations while claiming they are raising funds to help local firefighters.

These organizations act as though they are affiliated with local fire departments, according to Glenn Allison, president of the fire chiefs association. Allison said these solicitations have been conducted by phone and by mail in recent years.

"We want residents to understand that if they want to support local companies, solicitations will come by mail, not by phone," said Allison.

Allison said the fire chiefs association has sought help from Chester County Detectives regarding these incidents in the past.

Chester County Detectives Lt. Joseph Brooks said although these solicitations may come from legitimate charitable organizations, most of the donations made go to the fundraisers while only a small portion help the firefighters.

Brooks recalled how county detectives looked into a case in 2006 after being contacted by Allison regarding the Association for Disabled Firefighters Inc.

Chester County District Attorney Joseph Carroll addressed the public about the Association for Disabled Firefighters in an Oct. 20, 2006, news release. The association was traced back to Santa Ana, Calif.

The association had no connection to any Chester County emergency services organization or fire company, Carroll said. He also noted that, according to the charity's 2004 tax filing, the company raised more than $2 million and used less than $8,000 for "charitable purposes."

"In other words, only 40 cents out of every hundred dollars raised actually goes for the charitable purpose, while the other $99.60 goes to the fundraisers," Carroll said.

The district attorney's office recommended potential donors to any charity to ask the fundraiser specific questions, such as inquiring about the fundraiser's address, phone number and contact name. Also, Carroll urged potential donors to find out in advance how much of their donation will be used by the charity and how much will be spent on operating costs.

"Be skeptical of high-pressure tactics for immediate donations, especially if the solicitor wants to make arrangements to have someone pick up the donation immediately," Carroll said. "Do not give credit card numbers or personal information over the phone when dealing with an unfamiliar organization.

"Legitimate charitable organizations and legitimate fundraisers will not be offended if you ask for an opportunity to confirm information."

Allison said residents interested in donating to their local fire departments or emergency services personnel should visit www.helpfightfire.com.

"We understand times are tough, but we need funding to keep our doors open," Allison said.

To contact staff writer Danielle Lynch, send an e-mail to dlynch@dailylocal.com.