January 1999

We know what you're thinking: "With all I have to do for the holidays, you want me to think about my charitable donations now?"

Yes. And you'll feel better for it, because:

1. You'll relieve stress. It will feel good to accomplish at least one of the things you need to do for the holidays.
2. You won't have to worry about finding the money after you've finished your holiday shopping.
3. You'll be setting a good example.
4. You'll be helping your favorite causes get their holiday campaigns off to a good start.
5. You can get in some serious mouse time. You'll get to know your favorite organizations better by reading their GuideStar reports and "Charity News."
6. You can avoid doing unpleasant tasks. When your loved one says, "Are you on the computer again? You promised to . . . ," you can reply, "Yes, dear. I'm researching our end-of-the-year charitable donations and lowering our tax liability."
7. You'll be happier on April 15, 2000, when you deduct your contribution from your 1999 federal taxes.
8. January 1, 2000, will be here sooner than you realize. You want to start the new millennium/end the old millennium in good shape. (Note: GuideStar has no position on when the old millennium ends and the new one begins.)
9. You'll be in good company. According to the  Chronicle of Philanthropy (January 14, 1999), more than one-third of Americans increase their charitable giving during the month of December.
10. You were planning to do it anyway.

Suzanne E. Coffman
© Philanthropic Research, Inc.