NORTH CAROLINA -- The holiday season is fast approaching and all across the Carolinas, there are ways for people to give back to those in need.

Be sure to check out these local and statewide organizations when you find yourself in the giving spirit.

STATEWIDE

CENTRAL, N.C.

CHARLOTTE, N.C.

WILMINGTON, N.C.

GREENSBORO, N.C.

Remember to also follow these tips from the Better Business Bureau to ensure your are giving your donation to a legitament organization and are not being scammed.

  • Go to www.bbb.org/charity to check out Better Business Bureau’s charity data, including budget information and whether a charity meets BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance Standards for Charity Accountability.
  • If you’re unfamiliar with an organization, do not donate without getting details about it first.
  • Do not be fooled by low overhead claims. Some charities spend acceptable amounts on fundraising and administration, yet still fail to meet one or more of the BBB 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.
  • Think before you give. Ask for the charity’s name, address and written information on the charity’s programs and finances.
  • Watch out for cases of mistaken identity. Some charity names sound alike or look alike.
  • Know how much of your purchase goes to the charity. Be wary of statements such as “all proceeds go to charity.” Look for a disclosure that states how much will go to the charity’s programs and services.
  • Watch out for charity fraud. Legitimate charities willingly provide written information about their programs and finances. They never insist you provide your credit card number or bank account number.
  • Give by check or credit card. Charitable contributions to tax-exempt organizations may be tax-deductible to you. When you give by check or credit card, you have proof of your donation when it’s time to do your taxes.
  • Just say no. If you get a call from an organization asking for a contribution over the telephone by credit card or MoneyPak pre-paid debit card, say no and hang up. Once they have your credit card number, they could max out your credit limit within minutes. If you give by pre-paid debit card, the money is gone.
  • Hit delete. If you get an email from an organization asking for a contribution with a link, do not click on it. Instead, delete the email immediately. If you click on the link, you could unknowingly download spyware to your computer and that could lead to identity theft.