Many southwest county residents will celebrate a holiday or two over the next several weeks.

One of the ways people mark the season is by charitable giving. Whether at church, at school or by some other method, people typically increase their giving at this time of the year.

Sometimes, unfortunately, there are those who take advantage of our good nature by asking for contributions that are of nebulous value.

Last year we reported on the Helping Hands Outreach, an organization based in San Bernardino. Helping Hands Outreach claims to provide group housing, food and clothing for homeless people using donations and money from candy sales.

At the time, the group had a rudimentary Web site that did not provide much in the way of information on the group’s activities and goals.

One year ago, this column urged caution in contributing to representatives of this group in light of a December 2005 report in the Sacramento Bee which aired allegations of questionable operating procedures.

The Sacramento Police Department’s financial crimes unit investigated complaints about Helping Hands Outreach fundraising in 2005 but no charges were filed.

One year later, the group remains a fixture at the entrances of supermarkets in Southwest Riverside County. However, this time the group was even more difficult to validate.

An Internet search proved fruitless and the phone number listed for the group on a listing of charitable organizations in San Bernardino had been disconnected.

A 4-1-1 operator was not able to find a listing for the group Advertisement

[ Chatton and Associates ] anywhere in southern California.

It should be noted that Helping Hands Outreach is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit, charitable organization. But, again this year, Helping Hands Outreach is difficult to verify.

Let the donor beware. Here are guidelines provided by the Better Business Bureau for donating to charities:

• When approached for a contribution, ask questions and don’t donate until you’re satisfied with the answers.

• Get the charity’s full name and address. Demand identification from the solicitor.

• Ask if the charity is licensed. Registration or licensing is required by many communities.

• Watch out for statements such as "All proceeds will go to the charity." This can mean that the money left after expenses will go to the charity.

• When asked to buy candy, magazines, cards or benefit tickets, ask what the charity’s share will be.

• Don’t give cash; always make contributions by check, payable to the charity.

• Don’t be fooled by names that closely resemble the name of a well-known organization.

Generally speaking, if you do not know of the organization and their reputation you are better off donating to your local church, community center or food bank.

In these tough economic times, your donation can really mean a lot to families and individuals who are less fortunate. So do give, but please make your gift count by giving wisely.

Dave Reynolds is a political consultant/writer currently residing in Menifee. During the 1990s he served as chief of staff to the State Assembly Representative from the 66th District.