when I was in my 20’s, had my first corporate job and was easily intimidated, I allowed myself to be bullied by HR into having money withheld from my tiny paycheck to go to the United Way.
The following year when they made their UW drive, I carefully read the fine print on the card (in which you checked off the charities you wished for your donations to go) and noticed that it basically stated that the UW would consider your choices but THEY would ultimately determine which charities needed the money the most. I gave NOTHING and was even scolded by one of the bullies in HR. I stated my case and she shut up. I have never given to the UW again.
My favorite charities are those which pair guide dogs with wounded veterans. A win/win combination, IMO.
I do try to always have a few bucks available to drop in the SA kettle when I see them.
My experience was working at a Sheriff’s Office that would move or demote employees for not getting involved or committing to long term donations. They came in with their spread of food and made a big deal of their “thermometer”
I am sometimes embarassed by behavior of some of these posters comments. The Salvation Army does good things and is voluntary. I hate a bunch of so called do-gooders claiming to be christians sitting behind their computer taking the moral high ground. What’s a little pocket change to help people IN THEIR OWN COMMUNITY?
I say help a brother out during the holiday season.
We are all fortunate to be sitting here dicking around on FR on a Monday afternoon. We are the lucky ones.