In this season of giving

[AndyS]

when every charity imaginable is asking for donations I have a reminder that charities are required to file an IRS form 990. You can request a copy of that public filing and by law they have to supply copies of their most filings.

Form 990 gives information on income and expenditures by category so you can see how much actually goes to the intended recipients and how much is salary and advertising.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

1. Thanks for the info, dear Andy!

I was unaware of this. I’ll give it a try.

[slightlv]

2. I have too big a heart...

and it nearly breaks at some of these ads. I'll be so glad when they're not so frequent. We live on social security. We're not rich enough to even do the 63 cents a day without taking away from our own wee beasties and children, not to mention ourselves. So, I finally came to the decision last night that come Spring, as an offering to Bast and Anubis, I'll volunteer at the Humane Society, even if it means just emptying cat pans and walking the dogs.

With my back and fibro, it'll still be a sacrifice. But if they'll work around my disabilities, I'll give them my time and talents, in lieu of the dollars each month.

BTW... when I was working, I was an ASPCA donor for years. This, even while I was doing my own rescues, and trap, neuter, release. I had a special opening page at the time for them on my website during the 911 tragedy, because they worked the dogs without boots for so long, and I was pushing to get the dogs protection for their paws. We have a couple of really good rescue groups here in this little town, as well as the Humane Society. I've dropped off pounds of dog food I've bought extra when I had the money (as well as toys for the cats and dogs), and I encourage anyone who can to do the same. Most places won't take the food unless it's in unopened bags (at least around here)... but then, you just can't trust people like you used to anymore. (sigh)

[CaliforniaPeggy]

3. Good for you! We do what we can, with what we have, where we are!

Happy New Year, my dear slightlv!

[slightlv]

4. So true...

And I'd like to thank you for your pics this year... they've been a great highlight for one who doesn't get to travel much. Happy New Year to you and yours! May it bring all the goodness you could wish for!

[CaliforniaPeggy]

5. Thank you! I enjoy traveling and can still do it, from time to time.

My photos help me remember those good times. I'm glad they have brought happiness to you!