Re: Callander woman charged with fraud - May 12, 2011 [Baytoday.ca headline]
RE: Charities warn of scams; FRAUD CHARGES - May 13, 2011 [North Bay Nugget headline]
Recent stories about cancer fraud have grabbed headlines. While the Canadian Cancer Society cannot comment on cases that are currently before the courts, we can offer more information and tips for the public.
Currently, the Canadian Cancer Society has volunteers and supporters in North Bay, who are out in the community collecting pledges for two upcoming fundraising events. Students at West Ferris Secondary School are collecting pledges for “The Trojan Parade” set to take place on May 25. In its 17 year history this event has raised more than $145,000 for the Society. Pledges are also being collected for our signature fundraiser, Relay For Life, scheduled for June 3 at Canadian Forces Base, 22 Wing. People participating in both events will have official pledge sheets emblazoned with the Society’s logo.
To help educate local residents, we offer the following fraud prevention tips:
1. Familiarize yourself with your charity of choice and its campaigns. If you suspect that someone is misrepresenting a legitimate charity, ask for the campaign/event name and the participant’s name and contact the charity. The Canadian Cancer Society hosts a variety of fundraising events throughout the year. You can call us at 705 472-9072 or visit www.cancer.ca/northbay to find out what activities are happening in locally.
2. When donating in person, make your donation by cheque and make the cheque payable to the charity. Many charities have volunteers who to go door to door asking for donations or pledges. When making a donation, a cheque made out to the Canadian Cancer Society can only be cashed by the Society and you will receive an official tax receipt for your donation. If the receipt is misplaced, your cancelled cheque can verify the transaction. Often criminals ask for cash instead of credit cards. Cash is an untraceable transaction that cannot be cancelled.
3. If you suspect that fraud has occurred, call the authorities immediately. Contact, the North Bay Police Services Fraud Coordinator at 705 497-5590.
The Canadian Cancer Society is a national charity that raises funds to further our mission to eradicate cancer and enhance the quality of life of people living with cancer. We further our mission by funding research, offering information, advocating for healthy public policies and by providing services such as peer support and transportation. We are very thankful for the generous support we receive from residents in North Bay and surrounding communities.
Sincere regards, Susan Plamondon Fundraising Coordinator, Canadian Cancer Society, North Bay and District Unit
