The Unasked Questions
National vs. local autism charity– what’s the difference? How can my gift benefit the most?
By Nicole Cannon, Director of Development, Autism Connection of PA
We answer a lot of questions every day, and we love it! We like to give help, share resources and offer suggestions to families and individuals living with autism, and the people who help them (because we reach 27% of our list who are professionals). In all we do, our goal is to be a lifeline and central hub of autism education and resources for anyone in need. Often our introductions to new friends start with a phone call and a question.
Here are some questions we wish people would ask more often: “Why should I donate to the Autism Connection of PA when there are so many autism charities? What’s the difference between giving to a national autism charity, and a local group, like the Autism Connection? How does my donation make a difference?”
It’s important for you, as a friend and supporter of the Autism Connection, to make your own choice when and if you decide to support a charity. The short answer is that there is a big difference between giving to a national versus a local charity.
According to Consumer Reports (December 2017), “Choosing charities by name alone is a mistake some donors make, and their money sometimes ends up going to less-than-worthy groups.” The organization recommends doing your research and getting information about nonprofits via the two major charity watchdog websites, Charity Navigator and GuideStar. Also, find us or other nonprofits on Facebook and read the reviews there. Look for how much donor money is spent on programs vs. fundraising, the mission of a charity, verification of tax-exempt status, and read about the programs that the charity provides.
The Autism Connection is committed to careful and appropriate use of donor funds, transparency, and accountability. What does this mean for you, our donors and supporters? More than 87 cents of every dollar we receive as donations support our programs! This is an astounding number, and as you research other charities, you will see it is very high. We do this by keeping our overhead expenses low, our staff minimal, and continuing our dedication utilizing gifts and funding as judiciously as possible. We also understand that every gift is a sacrifice, and we value every contribution, no matter how small or large.