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• How can I make sure my charitable contributions are effective?
• How can I interest my children in volunteerism and philanthropy?

How can I make sure my charitable contributions are effective?
We've all been there — caught on the phone by someone soliciting contributions, and wondering if it's a legitimate place to give funds. According to experts, there are a variety of ways to ensure that you choose a deserving organization and that they'll use your money wisely:

• Always research the organization — get detailed information in writing about who an organization is, who they serve and how they spend their funding. Also, ask for its address and telephone number, then call to verify. Ask for a copy of the organization's last annual report.
• Understand how contributions are used — ask how much goes to the program, rather than administration of the charity. Ask what percent is for telemarketing or other promotional costs.
• Watch out for Internet scams — if you are considering an online organization with which you aren't familiar, request written materials or a phone call, and ask a lot of questions rather than simply relying on a slick website. Never respond to unsolicited e-mails.
• Keep records — don't give cash and make sure you get records for your donations, such as a receipt, so you can document your giving at tax time.
• Check with the government — most charitable organizations have to file financial information with the government; if the one you are considering isn't known by your local authorities, ask more questions.
• Give often, give generously — once you determine that a charitable organization is legitimate and deserving of your gift, give generously. There are so many people in need, and you can make a huge difference.

How can I interest my children in volunteerism and philanthropy?
It's never too early to teach a child about the spirit of giving. Here are a few ways to begin the charitable experience:

• Ask for their help when sorting through old clothes, and help your child understand that another child could benefit from the items that no longer fit your child.
• Make a game of collecting canned goods to give to a local food bank — who can find the most in the cupboard, or come up with the most interesting food combination?
• Have your child pick out a toy that's no longer used, and donate it for a child in need.
• Sign up to make a meal for a homeless shelter — even if your children are too young to participate in serving, often you can make it at home and then drop it off to be served.
• Increase your child's allowance while at the same time establishing a tradition of giving 10% of the allowance to a charity the child selects.
• Volunteer as a family.