Any time that I receive an unsolicited request for a charitable contribution from someone on the phone or at the door, even for an organization that I do support, I tell the person that my wife and I have a firm rule that we never agree to make a donation or pledge in such circumstances. If it seems to be something that I might be interested in contributing to, I ask them give me or mail me the pertinent information, and I tell them that I will consider sending in a contribution. Regards, Bill Ghrist Brett Day wrote:
On the subject of scams and fliers:
I had just arrived for band practice (mid life crisis of some sort, I am sure) when our host was assailed by a nice woman collecting for an event (perhaps a sponsorship) at a local hospital (I think William Penn, can't be sure). After sending her on her way (having been assured that he personally gave the previous year), he checked a flier he had just received, and sure enough; this was a scam.
He stepped outside to see where she went, and was lucky enough to see a cop car. He notified them, gave them a description, and told them where she went, while they decided to tell him what he did wrong in talking to her, rather than following her. Whether they caught her after this or not, I have no idea. Whether she is the only one doing this; I do not know.
The upshot is this:
Should someone come to your door asking support for anything; ask to see credentials. They should have an associated I.D. I suspect they should also be carrying a copy of a permit from the city, or Police. If they do not have anything, politely decline, send them on their way, watch where they go, and call the police.
Happy de-scamming Brett
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