MERS/Goodwill Encourages Holiday Giving with #GiveGoodwill Campaign

ST. LOUIS - Dec. 7, 2015 - PRLog -- The holiday season inspires generous giving. In fact, most charitable donations and volunteer hours are contributed in the last three months of the year. But while the air of peace, faith and hope brings out the best in most, it can bring out the worst in some in the form of scams and rip-offs.

A 10-year-old email resurfaces annually during the holidays, making erroneous statements (http://www.goodwill.org/uncategorized/think-before-you-donate-and-get-the-facts-about-email-rumors/) about several charitable organizations, including Goodwill. It stands as a firm reminder that everyone considering making a monetary gift or donation should do so wisely. Goodwill reminds donors to be diligent about charitable giving, to research organizations using sites like CharityWatch (https://www.charitywatch.org/home), and to make sure they’re donating to authentic bins.

"We always encourage those generous enough to give to give wisely," said David Kutchback, interim president and CEO of MERS/Goodwill. “Do your research and educate yourself about the recipient's goals, financials and efficiency. At Goodwill, we're completely transparent and proud of our consistently high ratings among all charity watchdog groups."

Those who choose to give to Goodwill can be confident that their financial gift and donated goods provide exponential benefits throughout the St. Louis community and all the communities we serve. Monetary gifts can be given safely and securely through Goodwill’s website (https://give.goodwill.org/site/c.9hKQI7MFIeI0E/b.8760489/...) and they go directly to helping members of our community. A donation of clothing or household items gives belongings a second life and reduces waste. Goodwill shoppers benefit from the opportunity to find the perfect gift or holiday ensemble, and all donations give hope to those seeking work by funding vital training and employment services. Goodwill's donation impact calculator (https://donate.goodwill.org/) provides detailed feedback on the effect even the smallest donations can have.

For more information about how your financial gift, donated goods and store purchases support efforts in the local community, visit our website at mersgoodwill.org. Share your Goodwill donations on Facebook and Twitter using the hashtag #GiveGoodwill.

Give smart this holiday season. #GiveGoodwill.

About MERS/Goodwill

MERS/Goodwill is a nonprofit agency that provides for the vocational needs of individuals who have barriers to employment through disability or economic disadvantage. Annually serving more than 60,000 individuals, the organization operates in 75 locations serving 74 counties in the bi-state area. Revenues from 42 Goodwill stores assist with funding MERS/Goodwill job training and employment services. MERS/Goodwill is a proud member of the United Way. For more information about MERS/Goodwill or to find a Goodwill donation center near you, call 314-241-3464 or visit www.mersgoodwill.org.

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