Prospective donors should be wary of organizations whose names are similar to those of legitimate charities.

Problem is the money goes to a supposedly legitimate charity overseas, and then goes to where it doesn't belong.

They help private donors make a critical difference in American communities while interlocking their governance with legitimate public charities, including community foundations.

Some outsiders, though, have cast a critical eye, questioning whether the foundation is a legitimate charity or a business hiding behind its nonprofit status.

Government officials subsequently described Food for Africa as a legitimate charity.

He said the only money sent to Lebanon by those arrested went to relatives or to legitimate charities.

Scammers may also take advantage of natural disasters by poising as legitimate charities.

Dozens of suspicious sites claiming links to legitimate charities are being investigated by state and federal authorities.

Tax exemptions can be denied to political organizations without wreaking havoc on the activities of legitimate charities.

But before contributing, investigate to make sure your cash is going to a legitimate charity - and not a scammer.