NCJ Number
190795
Date Published
2001
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This circular standardizes charity crime prevention information presented by the Los Angeles Police Department at community crime prevention meetings.
Abstract
The circular notes the difference between a "nonprofit" and a "profit" organization; a nonprofit organization's proceeds or monies raised go directly to the charitable organization. A profit organization, on the other hand, may take some of the proceeds or monies gained from any event held for a specific organization and pay for costs incurred in the process, with the rest or yield of the income going to the charitable organization. The circular advises that potential charitable givers should determine how much of a donation will be received by the actual charity. The circular also indicates the provisions of ordinances that set requirements for solicitation within the Los Angeles city limits. Tips are then offered for what persons can do to avoid being swindled through a charity solicitation. Advice includes the following: do not give cash to strangers; take the time to learn about the charitable organization before supporting it; be assertive on the telephone with solicitors; and make all donations by check to the organization or use employee-withholding programs at work. The circular further advises citizens to be wary of solicitors that exert pressure to sign blank checks or discourage the obtaining of information on the organization. Information sources and helpful telephone numbers and addresses are provided.