Giving and investing in a nonprofit is one of the most direct ways to impact and grow the mission of any organization. As we approach the season of giving, we would love to share what the Congressional Medal of Honor Society is doing to ensure your investment is secure and making the greatest impact possible. In addition, we’re happy to offer a few key tips to consider prior to making a donation with any organization during this time of generosity.   

Interested in learning more about how to give to support the work of Medal of Honor Recipients? Click here to learn how you can join the Congressional Medal of Honor Society in honoring the sacrifice and inspiring the future. 

Here are eight best practice measures to consider when preparing to make a financial donation during this giving season.   

Confirm that an Organization Is Registered as a 501(c)(3)

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, meaning that we are a non-profit organization that does not pay federal income taxes. You can ensure that other organizations are registered under this code by visiting the Charity Navigator website. 

Read the Donor Bill of Rights

Donors have rights, and we understand and follow the Donor Bill of Rights at all times to guarantee the security and successful transfer of your gifts. You can read the full document here. 

Ask For A Receipt

All donations are followed by a receipt or letter that donors can use for tax purposes, and you have the right to request and view your gift records or history and to request additional documentation at any time after the donation. 

Check For A Privacy Policy

Our privacy and security policy ensures that we protect your information to the best of our ability and that we will not sell your information to another organization. You can read our full policy here. 

Secure Your Data

You have the right to ask how your data is stored at any given organization. Organizations following best practices will have a Contact Relationship Management (CRM) system in place as well as protocols to ensure that information is not compromised. The Society uses Donor Perfect as a CRM, and you can learn more about our protocols here. 

Know Who Handles Your Investment 

You can always ask to speak with a staff member at an organization to discuss any questions you might have about the donation process. Your donation should be secure, and the staff at the Society are always ready to answer any questions or concerns. 

Protect Your Identity

You should not give your confidential banking information via email or any other digital platforms that leave a trace. We recommend that you call or physically give your information to ensure confidentiality. 

See Your Donation in Action

You can personally connect with the organization to which you plan to donate to by scheduling a time to meet the staff for either a tour or a discussion regarding your gift’s impact. In addition to helping you understand how donations work within the organization, this will help you establish a relationship with us that will give you confidence in your decision to donate.

By following these guidelines, you can rest assured that your personal information will be secure and that your donation will have a positive impact on the future. 

The Society’s initiatives are fully supported by generous donors like you, and you can help us preserve the longstanding legacy of the Medal of Honor by donating today. Contact our staff with any questions or to schedule a time to meet (virtually or in-person) to learn more about the Medal of Honor Recipients’ work nationwide.