Lie of the week: "We would like to thank you for your past support."

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Has anyone else received telemarketing calls from charities where the caller states, "We at such and such organization would like to thank you for your past support, and we were wondering if we could once again count on your generosity as we continue our search to find the cure for such and such?"

The problem: You're not sure you've ever heard of the particular charity, let alone remember donating to them.

In the last couple of weeks I have received such calls from Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Fire Fighters Benevolent Fund, The Leukemia Society and the Optimist Club. These may all be good, worthwhile causes. However, I have never given money to any of them.

Don't get me wrong. I have my soft spots and causes. I'm forbidden from watching late night T.V. because we simply can't afford to sponsor yet another child in Indonesia or Africa. Those infomercials always get to me... The orphans, with no clean water, little food, huge emaciated eyes, distended belly, and flies gathering.... Just a second, gotta go call Save The Children.

Okay, Back now.

I'm convinced there is a bit of a scam going on here. These cold calling charities are attempting to make you feel obligated to give money based on past support - that never existed. Essentially they are saying, "You've already proven you are kind and generous, do you want to prove otherwise?" They are counting on both your generosity and your addle brain. It's not only dishonest but insulting. As a rule, I never give money solicited over the phone. I don't know if the person on the other end is in a dank boiler room collecting a commission on each donation, or a real volunteer.

I doubt this type of call/approach is illegal, (although I am on the National Do Not Call List) but it sure is disappointing to see charities employ such a slimy tactic. Why should I trust them with my money to help the less fortunate when they lie so easily?
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