Questions to Ask Before You Donate

If you’re looking to donate your treasures to a local nonprofit, you’ve got a lot of choices. There are a wealth of nonprofits that operate thrift stores throughout the nation and across New Mexico that are happy to accept the resources that you no longer need- but how do you determine which nonprofit is the right choice for you to donate to? You can arrive at that answer by asking a nonprofit some simple questions.  One reason Goodwill has been so successful is transparency and a strong commitment to giving back to the communities in New Mexico. Whether you choose to donate your goods to a Goodwill store near you or another local thrift store or charity, make sure you’re giving to a charity that is meaningful to YOU by asking these essential questions.

1.  What is the nonprofit’s mission?
As a donor, you want a clear picture of what you are supporting, so ask about the nonprofit’s mission and work. Most of the time, the representative will give you a clear picture of the organization’s background, mission statement, growth, and achievements as well as how your donation helps to further these goals. Being able to imagine your impact is powerful!

2.  What outcomes result from their work?
How does the nonprofit measure what they do in the community? It is important that your charity of choice be able to describe the impact their work is having on related issues in New Mexico. What changes resulted from their work? We bet they’ll be excited to talk about their work and what it means.

3.  How much of the donation actually makes it to the intended recipients?
Supporting a newly established nonprofit can mean higher administrative costs (whether or not your donation is monetary), while an established charity might be able to deliver a higher percentage of the donated material to populations that the organization was established to support. Neither is right or wrong- it is all about what makes you feel good and comfortable!

No matter which organization you choose to give to, you should feel great about your decision to donate! Thinking of donating to Goodwill? Get all the details here!


About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.