Charities Review Council - Smart Giver Profile: Tom Webb

Most importantly, I look at an organization’s fundraising and total expense percentage compared to the total contributions. The Council’s approach allows for “apple-to-apple” comparisons of organizations’ financial data. I can determine what is an appropriate expense and what is excessive. I can weed out “con-man scams” using the Council’s objective, analytical criteria. If the Council does not have information on an organization, I can skip it and find an organization that meets the Council’s specifications. Time is short, money even shorter.

What about your experiences working with charitable organizations?

With so many unsolicited requests for support, I want to “cut-to-the-chase,” to quickly make contribution decisions. Thanks to the Giving Guide list, I can see if the Council has reviewed the organization and if the organization has met the Council’s standards. If they pass muster, I’ll consider contributing. You can be “Minnesota Nice” without being Minnesota stupid.

What advice would you give to other potential donors?

The Council gives you an informed analysis on which you can make the decision of whether to support an organization.

Has the Council been useful to you?

The Council has been indispensable in helping me make timely, informed giving decisions.

What can donors do to strengthen nonprofits??

I would not ask anyone to support me if I was unwilling to provide honest financial plans and accompanying explanations, if necessary. If an organization asks for my support (through donation of my hard earned money), it must provide financial audited data. Otherwise, the organization should not waste its time and marketing budget on me.