Anonymous wrote:Wow, I have always given to CFC since starting as a fed almost 10 years ago and have made it a point to increase my donation every year even when money felt tight. I love that it comes out little by little so you don't feel it. I figured there was a little overhead and even though I always do my research on charities on Charity Navigator, I never looked into the overhead. Overhead of 16% is too much - I could be giving so much more to charity! I am thinking I won't do CFC this year, but need to hold myself accountable to keep giving.
I don't like the solicitation by coworkers because it's awkward, but I do like it setting the tone that charitable giving is good. I have no problem with them running the program in years we don't get COL raises. I feel like I'm paid well enough to give to others who are less fortunate.
Many charities will let you sign up for a monthly donation through their websites. I put mine on my credit card (paying it off each month) and then I get 2% back on everything I donate!
Another option would be to set up a special bank account you only use for donations and have a portion of your salary direct deposited to it each month.