Donor data sharing sparks complaints and advice on stopping unwanted solicitations

A California donor who gives quarterly to two prominent children’s cancer hospitals says the volume of fundraising appeals has escalated from quarterly to multiple times a week, now including phone calls, texts and emails, despite only sharing a mailing address. The writer suspects charities are sharing or selling donor information and asks how to halt the barrage. Respondents advise writing directly to each organization, asking them to delete the donor’s name from any rented or exchanged lists, and note that the Better Business Bureau requires charities to provide an opt-out option at least once a year.

The column also features a separate appeal from a 50-year-old grieving mother’s death, concerned about a 52-year-old brother who is financially imprudent, and wonders whether to obtain legal guardianship. Counsel recommends speaking with an attorney, explaining the situation to the brother, and not delaying the conversation despite its difficulty. The column is authored by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by Pauline Phillips.