Good news & bad news

As the tragedy in Myanmar, the dictatorship formerly known as Burma, is worsened by that country’s paranoid, overwhelmed and incompetent ruling military junta, people the world over want to help.

But not all well-meaning donations reach their intended destinations, even under much better circumstances.

Charity Navigator bills itself as the largest and most-used evaluator of charities in the United States. We risk violating the first rule of journalism — if your mother says she loves you, check it out — on the day before we honor the subject of that aphorism, no less. But the organization’s tips to ensure cyclone relief contributions are well-spent are worth passing on.

u Give to an established charity: Don’t let an unscrupulous organization take advantage of your goodwill. Avoid fly-by-night charities created specifically to deal with cyclone relief efforts. Even well-meaning new organizations may not have the infrastructure and knowledge of the region to efficiently maximize your gift.

u Designate your gift: By designating your gift specifically for Myanmar cyclone relief efforts, you’ll ensure that your donation will be used for the victims of this particular disaster.

u Avoid telemarketers: Be wary of fundraisers who pressure you to make a contribution over the phone. Never divulge your credit card information to someone soliciting you via the phone.

u Give online, but do so carefully: Never respond to unsolicited e-mails, especially those with an attachment or from anyone alleging to be a victim. People affected by a disaster are in no position to contact you directly for assistance.

u Research and follow up: Take the time to find a charity you can trust.

Charity Navigator listed a number of top charities responding to this disaster, including: ActionAid International USA, ADRA, CARE, Church World Service, Direct Relief International, International Medical Corps, International Rescue Committee, MAP International, Rescue Task Force, Samaritan’s Purse, Save the Children, United States Fund for UNICEF and World Vision.

More information can be found at the organization’s Web site, www.charitynavigator.org.