My dad mailed back every survey or donation solicitation sent to him – usually with a check or credit card number. Political mailings were donated to – much went to representatives in other states who would not represent Dad where he is. “Social Security “solicitations that sent him into panic and he felt like he had to respond, even though it wasn’t from Social Security. There are solicitations for every type of cause – animals, forests, tree society, and more (much more).
The amount of donations is astounding and by responding with money to one or more increases the number of solicitations that are sent back out. If no money is sent and only a survey filled out, it’s likely just tossed at the other end and might or might not use your information to sell.
There is a good chance that the credit card option will give them a way to keep charging or putting the card into their system. Checks can be whitewashed and redone for larger amounts. They have all the routing numbers to make new checks with and pull from your account.
My dad used to give me all kinds of calendars and bags that the companies sent to him. He had no use for a dozen calendars, so he gave them to me. I also had no use for so many (and not wanting ones that were many months of advertising). I recycled the bulk of them – so it was a waste for them to send those.
The more donations you make, the more you will get, and the more will ask for money. Just don’t send them back, or at least just pick the few you do like and support. Then donate to those few and toss the others out. Dad spent well over $10K in donations when his dementia could no longer decide.
PR