Originally Posted by DianD

I tell them the truth...in January of each year, I look at all things financial and decide how much I can give to charities over the coming year. I tell them that for me to donate, they must submit a request to me in writing by Dec. 31st, for the next year, as I do not make donations over the telephone. After that, all money is spoken for. I've done this for years now, and it actually works! (Don't tell, but I keep a little unspoken for to send to clean-up efforts...you know, when BP tries to kill the global water resources, or a hurricane tries to wipe New Orleans off the map!)