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November 29, 2016

Professional charity solicitors take over half of donations

Professional solicitors in 2015 collected more than $201 million from donors in Massachusetts, but only $82 million reached the charities favored by contributors, according to a new report.

On average, 41 cents of every dollar collected in 2015 by a professional solicitor was directed to the charity. That's up from the 38 cents average in 2015, Attorney General Maura Healey concluded in a report from her office.

The $201 million total reflects funds raised by the 69 conventional solicitors registered in Massachusetts and through the 776 fundraising campaigns they reported to the attorney general's charities division.

Healey advised donors to make direct contributions to charitable organizations. When contacted by professional solicitor, potential donors should consider whether the caller is a volunteer or professional fundraiser, find out how much of every dollar donated will go to charity, and confirm the charity's name and the services it offers.

“Massachusetts has an incredible tradition of charitable giving and we strongly encourage people to give wisely to nonprofit organizations that help people and strengthen communities across the state,” the attorney general said in a statement accompanying her report.. “On ‘Giving Tuesday,’ we want to remind people that while most charities are reputable and need our support, it is important to make informed decisions and understand how much of a donation will ultimately go to the charity and the mission it supports.”

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