How do you feel about DU members asking for donations from DU members?

[trumad]

I'm a born cynic ---so I have to admit, I have a hard time donating to an entity that has not been proven legit.

I've seen these types of threads here on DU---especially recently--- and yeah sure I could avoid them or trash them---and yeah sure, some may be a true need for help....but again, how do we know?

Doesn't this open up DU to scammers, etc?

[CaliforniaPeggy]

1. DU is already open to scammers, except that we at MIRT catch them and throw them out.

I'd say trust your own judgment on the legitimacy of any member asking for financial help. If the appeal passes your sniff test, then go for it. If not, then walk on by.

[CreekDog]

42. you catch all of them Peggy?

not quite.

[SidDithers]

194. +1...

Just this week, a returning disruptor, who'd been banned before for peddling supplements, was left by MIRT.

Now they're over 100 posts, and out of MIRT's purview.



Sid

[madokie]

2. I don't think its appropriate to solicit for donations here.

We're here to discuss, cuss and pat each other on the back
not necessarily in that order IMO

[elehhhhna]

67. i'm witchoo. except for the case of andy stephenson

and that wasn't started by du, iirc.


otoh if someone I know on du is facing homelessness I might want a heads up...

[dionysus]

144. Andy was legit though, provenly so.. others, not so much...

[oldhippie]

79. Skinner has said it is OK ....

.... so I kinda think that makes it appropriate, no?

[madokie]

81. If Skinner says its ok who am I to say differently

on a personal level I don't think it is though, but thats just me, in my way of seeing things that is

Would you like to have my paypal info so you can send me some mulah Kid'n

[SidDithers]

198. Skinner says it's OK, and that DUers have to use their own judgement as to whether to donate...

Basically, I think they take a "we're hands off, but don't blame us if you get scammed" position on solicitations.

Sid

[Warren DeMontague]

3. sperm?

Just want to clarify what sorts of donations we're talking about, here.



Serious answer, I don't believe 99.999999% of what I read on the internet, including the stuff I myself wrote. So I am with you on the cynicism thing. It's terrible, I should be more trusting.

[randys1]

4. Without commenting on the validity of any of these threads

the boards I am used to posting on wouldnt allow them at all...

But, maybe that is too cynical, maybe they are OK as long as "buyer beware" is practiced

[4now]

5. I don't care at all

I am able to make my own decisions about who I give my money to.

[Tikki]

220. I agree....

Tikki

[JI7]

6. it's up the the person, if i had more money and really felt someone was in need

i would have a bigger problem not giving thinking it wasn't real than to give and turns out to be fake.

but people can request more info from people.

and in a lot of these threads people have also informed those who needed help that there were govt services and other help available to them which they did not know about .

[Erich Bloodaxe BSN]

7. It's always your choice.

Any of the guys standing in camos by the interstate exits with cardboard signs could be scammers too, but I still give them cash if I've got some to spare. Life sucks hard for a lot of folks, and I'd rather get scammed a time or two and help some folks that also really need it than simply harden my heart to all who ask.

[PasadenaTrudy]

9. Well said n/t

[frazzled]

13. Yeah, but those guys really earn their money standing out there

We actually keep small cash in the car to give to them when the moment seems right: even if they are scamming, they're standing out there in the cold and rain and wind and snow, so I figure it's a hard job and it's worth giving something. Typing a story on the Internet does not seem as compelling to me, and I can't connect with a face or demeanor.

Last year I gave $40 to a guy on the El I was pretty sure might be scamming (he positioned himself so that we would overhear him talking on his phone to a friend about his mother, downstate, who was in the hospital for an aneurysm and he neither had any money for the train or bus to get there and didn't even know what an aneurysm was or whether she would live or die). I thought, this might be a scam or it might not be ... but DAMN, he's good at it! My husband and I decided to reward him at least for what was a magnificent performance.

I'm not sure asking for donations on this web site is legitimate, though. I may be overly kind in person ... but I'm suspicious on the Internet.

[jberryhill]

16. Sometimes it is good enough performance art

That it doesn't matter if it is real or not.

Who gets free live theater?

[IronGate]

20. I like the ones who's sign will say something like

Why lie? I need a drink.

[jberryhill]

27. The one that got me recently looked like this

Coin Toss - Test Your Skill

The guy had that written on the front of a piece of cardboard with a hole in it and a bucket behind it.

If I laugh, I pay.

I ran into another guy with a "Bad Advice $1". I gave him a dollar and he gave me some bad advice. When I asked him what I should do after that he said, "That'll cost you another $1". I said, "But isn't that bad advice?" and he said, "Yeah, looks like you got a freebie."

[IronGate]

29. LOL

That's hilarious.

[JimDandy]

95. Yes, I paid too when he made me laugh...

His sign said he was homeless and passing through town. His stuffed dog's sign said "beware of dog".

[jberryhill]

98. ...and musicians

I have a rule about anyone making, or even attempting to make, music in a public place. I don't care what it is or how good it is, if you are trying to make music in a public place, you are getting something from me.

[JimDandy]

104. Good rule. n/t

[vanlassie]

106. AGREED!

[nolabear]

195. In New Orleans parting you from your money is high art.

The buskers range from incredible musically to kids with bottle tops on the bottoms of their shoes, all of whom earn my money and respect. But my favorites are the guys with the timeless one: "I'll bet you a dollar I can tell you where you got them shoes."

[Dark n Stormy Knight]

40. We had a guy come up to us in NYC and say, "I'm gonna tell

you a joke, and if I make you laugh, you can give me a dollar." We didn't exactly commit to the terms, but we listened to his joke.

I don't remember the joke (I'll be my husband does), but he did make us laugh, and he did appear to be needy. So we gave him a dollar.

[dionysus]

147. i gave 5 bucks to a guy who didn't have a sign, but said the same thing to me. a section of bums

here has it real bad... they take shelter in a crawlspace underneath a popular BBQ place in the heart of the city... but at some point in the middle of the night, the joint fills with scalding steam, so they have to go out into the winter cold during those hours. guy was honest and said he needed booze. I gave him a few bucks.

I've also given a few bucks to the intersection people... be it food or a few drinks to forget the pain, help is help...

[whathehell]

35. Yep...Me too. I'd rather err on the side of kindness than on cold-heartedness. n/t

[Jackpine Radical]

66. Thanks. For 2 things.

First, for your attitude

and second, for writing that so I didn't have to.

I've donated to a number of people and causes on this board, starting a long time ago--in 2001, as I recall. Maybe I've been ripped off sometimes. Maybe not. I also give to street people. I figure anyone desperate enough to have to ask for money probably needs it. And I don't fuckin' CARE if they buy wine with it. Maybe they need the wine. And maybe sometimes I'm getting ripped off & the apparent bum has a Rolls parked around the corner or something. Well, OK, then I get ripped off. Maybe that's just sort of a tax I have to pay in order to enjoy the warm feeling I get from having done something for somebody. Got knows the rich are already into me for a helluva lot. A little more won't hurt, as long as some needy people also benefit.

[narnian60]

85. This is exactly the way I feel.

Thanks for articulating it for me.

[dionysus]

149. i too have passed out some quid here and there, but sometimes the scam is too damn easy to spot...

one year, this guy in a threadbare suit would be in the parking lot of a certain convenience store... claiming a crisis and needed gas... except he was there.. every sunday.. every week, for months on end...

someone shivering in the cold with a cardboard sign is more likely to receive charity to me...

once, I did what even myself thought was stupid... in the midst of super freezing temperatures in winter, a guy shivering in a t-shirt outside the 7-11 asked me for a ride a few miles away... he explained that he just got out of PRISON!!! (probably county jail) with nothing but the clothes on his back and needed a ride to a place he knew.. even showed me his discharge papers (everything he had was in a plastic bag, I imagine he got jailed in the summer and released in the winter)... everyone was ignoring him...

my brain said no, but the guy was in a t shirt and turning blue in 20 degree weather.. I gave the guy a ride and wished him luck.. although my heart was racing the whole time....

[Iwillnevergiveup]

232. Oh my, I know that feeling

I picked up a cold, wet white pit bull a few years ago in a parking lot and put her in the back seat of my car. I knew I could get her to an animal shelter before it closed, and I didn't have to be anywhere immediately. She was very quiet and was lying down for a few blocks. But with a couple of miles to go, I saw her front paws on the back of my seat, and she was staring at me in the rearview mirror, not moving an inch. I thought she was going to rip my head off, so I just started humming. We made it OK to the shelter, and she was successfully adopted, but that was a scary encounter and yes, my heart was racing the whole time.

As far as humans on DU expressing needs, I believe them. And street people, too. A few bucks won't bankrupt me, and it may make a huge difference to someone else. Despite the almighty market, we're seeing very hard times in this country.

[tblue37]

105. +1! nt

[emsimon33]

145. Yes!!!! I would rather err on the side of helping someone in need.

Those who scam will get theirs in the end.

[moriah]

8. DUers were quite kind to me in the Fall.

I'd just been discharged from the hospital, was still awaiting my disability benefits, and needed to get seen by a psychiatrist ASAP without insurance. The amount I asked for was enough to carry me over until Obamacare kicked in, and I'll forever be grateful.

The platform used was Wishadoo, not GoFundMe like the last one I saw. We had the person who was trying to create Wishadoo on here for awhile, and that person (I believe) had to approve the new fundraisers before they hit the Wishadoo site.

Not sure if they are still around. (Edit: thread was not posted in GD, FWIW, but the Lounge, and users from here still helped me so it got more than enough exposure there.)

Maybe the Lounge is a more appropriate area for these kind of threads than GD?

[LuvNewcastle]

31. Yeah, I think GD isn't really the place for threads like that.

I thought we had a forum here for helping people in need, but I don't know what happened to it. Anyway, I definitely know what it's like to be at the end of your rope, and a lot of people don't have family or friends who can help them. I hate to say that people shouldn't be able to post donation threads; I just think they shouldn't be here in GD, even though we have plenty of other threads that shouldn't be here.

By the way, I'm glad you were able to get the help you need and you're doing better. You have to be basically destitute before they'll give you disability. I was when I got it. Take care, and I hope things keep getting better for you.

[moriah]

89. The Lounge's SOP does sound closer to it than GD.

And thank you, I'm glad to be better.... and thank you to the four DUers who helped save, literally, my sanity. I have no idea who they were, because Wishadoo allowed them to be anonymous.

[La Lioness Priyanka]

10. i too feel it is weird unless someone has been here a while

and sort of proven that they are part of a community

[IronGate]

11. Being the author of one today for my daughter and granddaughter,

you make a great point, it can open DU up to scammers, although I give you my word that mine isn't a scam, she really does need the help.
Being a born cynic is sometimes a good thing, if you have any doubt that it's a scam, by all means, don't donate, I myself don't take it personal.
I'm not quite sure how you would verify that a request for donations is legit. I guess that's for Skinner and co. to figure out.
I very reluctantly started this thread only because my daughter is in dire straits and so far, we've gotten some great advice for fellow members, which is more valuable than the donations.
Have a good day.

[CreekDog]

54. Skinner said recently that he doesn't vouch or vet these fundraising appeals

and cautioned that DUers are advised to use their own judgement.

[IronGate]

99. I agree. nt.

[notadmblnd]

12. I have mixed feelings about it.

it's not anything I would ever do and believe me I've been down on my luck plenty. For the last four years we've been just scraping by and things have only recently begun to improve. I'm not out of the woods yet, I still double think every dollar I spend and if it weren't for my family, my son and I, who is now 21 and working, would have been left homeless.

I don't know if people come here to scam money out of other people. What I like to think is that if they have humbled themselves so much that they are publicly begging for assistance, then who am I to suspect them? I also realize that there could be right wingers out there that love to scam and cheat liberals then go off and laugh amongst themselves about it, but I believe what goes around comes around.

I once offered to help someone here who claimed they had no transportation. I had an old truck that ran sitting in my driveway and offered it to them at no cost if they could find a way to come get it. But no one ever showed up to pick it up. maybe someone else who was closer helped them with transportation?

so yeah when someone comes here seeking assistance because tehy know liberals are generally kind hearted, I do wonder why they have no one amongst friends and family that they can go to

[CBGLuthier]

14. I assume all such pleas are scams as I am a cynic also.

I would never call any of them out but I also would never give a penny to a one of them.

[Douglas Carpenter]

15. I guess it's okay. Although I do feel a little funny about it.

[DisgustipatedinCA]

17. I'm a cynic too.

When I read a thread asking for money, I'd like to see a little more accompanying information. Did the OP send what money he could? Does he have a spare car he could send? Why today, instead of yesterday or two months ago or a month from now? What other avenues have been exhausted? And so on. And this is an ugly thought, but when I'm pretty much diametrically politically opposed to someone's oft stated beliefs--on guns, on Latin America, on Israel/Palestine, on "the Left" in genera--I'm not real disposed to want to help out.

There are some posters here I'd give my last $100 to without a second question. They're few and far between, but they earned that right after years and years.

[KoKo]

18. I think it's up to DU'ers to decide.

If they have had contact with the DU'er through PM's and such and want to donate because they know someone they had respect for is in need...they they can judge what they want to do.

There are many DU'ers through the years who've had some hard times...and so we can't just assume that a person is a scammer (just because of low post count or we didn't like what they posted) ....but, there is also the worry that the Internet being what it is that there are people who might want to take advantage.

Still... would think that its up to to DU'ers who at least appreciate the posts of the DU'er in need and have had some interchange here and there to decide whether the need is valid. But, again, there are many folks still hurting in this economy and a DU plea might be their last resort. From what I've seen DU'ers who know how to connect people with info from "Aid Agencies" and working with them through getting legal help are often the ones who do more good, in the end.

Sometimes folks just need some Advice or links to Agencies with Social Programs that can help them that they just don't know about when they reach their wits end and are desperate. There are some Good DU'ers here who probably can do more help by steering people to State/Charity resources and others who can chip in to tide one over until they can connect with Help Agencies. Working Together?

imho....anyway..

[A-Schwarzenegger]

19. I've very recently discovered

(whatever it might say about my own character)
that I'm less likely to give if I don't care for the
poster, not so much their opinions as their attitude.
I don't feel so good writing that, but if somebody's
nasty and smug, then asks for something, well, yeah.
I got a ways to go. But it was useful to discover
that somebody might not know about legal and community
resources and maybe wouldn't have been informed
about them if they hadn't asked.

[Dark n Stormy Knight]

51. I once gave a DUer about 25 bucks because he asked in a PM after

we'd had some good private discussions on a topic related to the reason for the need. And it was at a time when I wasn't feeling as cash strapped as I have been lately.

Later, when he posted a negative reply to me on a thread, I regretted giving him the money. I didn't say so or ask for it back or anything. And I did feel bad about it, but I was annoyed. Lol.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

52. I understand, fellow human.

[Dark n Stormy Knight]

59. Thanks.

[hlthe2b]

21. I've been scolded for being too much a soft touch--especially to panhandlers...

(I know you are talking about on DU, but.....)

So, for a long while, I tried just handing out fast food coupons and the like, but one that regularly sat out in Denver along the route home from work would get me almost every time.

He had a big sign that said in big block letters: FBI!
(and in small letters underneath you could read: flat broke Indian-- LOL)


I just had to reward the sense of humor.

[el_bryanto]

22. I know where you are coming from

I don't read those posts anymore - because what can you do? I'd rather give my money to places that I can be sure the money is going someplace beneficial.

Bryant

[leftstreet]

23. Does DU have a forum or group for legal/social resources?

By state, etc?

If there is one, I haven't seen it.

[KoKo]

34. I don't know of one...and if one is desperate they are going to

to put it out in GD rather than try to hunt around on DU for a Group which probably wouldn't get much interest after awhile, though.

Instant Help is what a person in need is seeking rather than going into a DU Group. But, it's an interesting idea to have a place where people could maybe go for resources State by State. Just don't see it working better than an Instant Ask where they can get input if they are in desperate position.

[Tree-Hugger]

72. That's a good idea

I think it would be great to have a separate forum where people can ask for resources. I know that there are sometimes resources available that we don't think of until a bunch of people put their heads together.

Like KoKo above me said, people are likely to put these posts on GD because it's gets more traffic than many of the other forums.

[pintobean]

24. The 8 year scam plan

with a few grand as the pay-off.

Riiiiight.

This is a pretty crappy way to treat a fellow DUer who's very likely going through some very difficult times.

[trumad]

56. ah Pinto

I can always rely on you for this type of reply.

You never miss a chance.

[Capt. Obvious]

57. How do we know he's not going to use it for alcohol and drugs?

[pintobean]

62. I'll buy him a beer.

I think he deserves it.

[Capt. Obvious]

64. I just gave him almost half of my checking account

of course I only had $XX in it.

And really, I didn't even click on that thread until this one. Thanks Trumad.

[hfojvt]

83. I think he's due some travel money too

and some interesting adventures.

[dionysus]

153. is there a backstory to this OP?

[A-Schwarzenegger]

155. I would bet that it has to do with this:

On Tue Aug 5, 2014, 07:13 PM an alert was sent on the following post:

To all my fellow DU'ers.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10025340305

REASON FOR ALERT

This post is disruptive, hurtful, rude, insensitive, over-the-top, or otherwise inappropriate.

ALERTER'S COMMENTS

I have suspicions that this is a scam. This poster is known as a (banned) right winger at Discussionist:

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=view_post&forum=1015&pid=2318

http://www.discussionist.com/1015106277

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=profile&uid=100028&sub=trans

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=profile&uid=100902&sub=trans

and protests in advance of a challenge:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=5342445

Not sure how the jury could/should decide, and I hate to be the hall monitor, but I do hope the admins look at it.

JURY RESULTS

A randomly-selected Jury of DU members completed their review of this alert at Tue Aug 5, 2014, 07:21 PM, and voted 6-1 to HIDE IT.

Juror #1 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: This was a tough devasion because I would feel bad about hiding it if it were real, but I have never trusted this poster and my instincts tell me it is a scam.
Juror #2 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #3 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: Going long with what the alerter said and am voting for a hide.
Juror #4 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #5 voted to LEAVE IT ALONE
Explanation: Let the mods suss this out.
Juror #6 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: Good catch!
Juror #7 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given

[oberliner]

25. You raise some interesting points

Is there a DU policy on this?

[KoKo]

37. Skinner said awhile back that DU'er can post their own requests...

It was in response to the DU'er who had a Charity Organization to help DU'ers who had to give it up for awhile and take a break from it. Skinner said in ATA that individual pleas were OK.

Maybe someone else has newer info, though, about his policy.

[kcr]

26. Long time regular posters who've never asked for charity before

are probably a safe bet. I'm cautious of newbies and posters who do nothing but post requests repeatedly for themselves.

[hrmjustin]

28. For longtime members I have no issue.

You take your chances.

[jberryhill]

30. How do you feel about the way everyone else feels?

[upaloopa]

32. If you chose to give out of a feeling of generosity

you create good karma for yourself. Generosity is also a way to be grateful for being able to give. I think that should be the basis for giving. What the person does with my gift is not my issue.

[steve2470]

33. hey Trumad, your wife asked me for a donation towards your medical care

*waddle waddle*

[madamesilverspurs]

36. My first inclination

is to hurt for the person doing the asking. It's a damned hard thing to do. And knowing that, if I could help I would, but I'm frankly too close to that edge myself.

It isn't just here that I've noticed the increase in "asks". Beggars are becoming common, it's a rare day that a trip to the grocery store doesn't include the sight of someone holding a sign asking for help. It's real, here. Housing has become scarcer for low income people, some have lost their apartments when landlords have raised the rents to take advantage of the imported fracking workers' need for housing. It's damned tough right now.

On the rare occasion I can toss them a dollar or two, I do so. If they're scamming, it's bad on them, but my soul is clean. So.

[redqueen]

38. On tumblr a lot of blogs have a 'donate' button so I'm used to it and it doesn't bother me at all.

Like others have said, it's up to each individual to decide for themselves if they want to help, just like people out panhandling or busking. If I had money to spare I'd be glad to help. I've considered asking for help before. Single mom, one income, two teens... it's not easy. So far I've managed to scrape by but I guess since I have been close to doing it myself, I tend to be less cynical about it.

[whathehell]

39. I have no problem with it. I trust DUers.

I may argue and fight with them, but I generally trust them.

I may be wrong from time to time, but as I said in another post, I'd rather err on the

side of compassion than on that of cold heartedness.

[steve2470]

45. + 1 nt

[DemocratSinceBirth]

41. I am a liberal because I have empathy for folks in distress...

If I can help someone who is in legitimate distress I feel good for having done so.

[ProfessorGAC]

69. Define Legitimate Please

What if i said that i have MS (i do) and my medicine is really expensive (over $1800 per month sans insurance) and i said i couldn't afford the co-payment.

How would know that if i asked for money that i make >12,000 per month?

Defining legitimate is a tricky thing when it's someone you only know over the internet.

[DemocratSinceBirth]

74. That's the problem. You identified it.

But if someone is in distress I am going to do my best to help him or her, within the bounds of reason.

[steve2470]

43. karma (which I know is unprovable)

You lie about your own needs, karma will bite you in the ass. That's how I feel about it.

[panader0]

44. I've got many needs and limited resources

I would never ask DU, or stand on a corner to beg money. Never.
I saw posts for a guy who needed a new refrigerator or furniture. get a grip.
The stuff I saw on Wishadoo was crazy. I'm with you on this one trumad.

[redqueen]

48. If you were homeless and starving, you wouldn't ask for spare change?

I have been there and I did it. If you're that desperate, you might.

[panader0]

49. No

[redqueen]

50. Have you been there already?

Or are you saying you wouldn't do it if you ever were in that situation?

[panader0]

58. I couldn't bring myself to do it.

I've been broke and hungry. I've slept under the trees. I will work for, or earn what I get, or I will take a pass.
When I get beyond that, I'll pass on.

[pintobean]

61. Pride is a luxury.

[panader0]

63. Perhaps

At least it's one I can afford. I'm not trying to be against charity- I take care of many people in different ways with no return.
For me, myself, I don't want what I don't earn. I'll die instead.

[demwing]

70. "Earn" is such a subjective term

How do you define it? Does it always require an even, direct exchange?

[panader0]

71. For me it does require an exchange.

I have been a bricklayer for forty years. I start a job tomorrow at age 63. I will do "this" if you pay me "that".
So for me, it's been a physical exchange. Sweat for money. I don't want what I don't earn. I worked hard, built my own house, pay my taxes, own my land, and like trumad, I am leery of giving money to folks on DU for issues that I also have.
Hey, I need some dental work. Should I set up a Pay Pal account and solicit donations? And yeah, my refrigerator is starting to F up. can you buy me a new one?

[demwing]

91. What about indirect services?

Would you accept payment from the government to build homes for low income families?

Does it have to be physical labor?

Would you accept payment from the government to administrate the building of homes for low income families?

What about tax credits and rebates? Did you "earn" those? If not, do you refuse them?

[Chan790]

197. Same.

I've noticed how easy it is for some people to say "I'd never..." because they've never slept on a steam grate or had to stand in a 45 minute long line for a PB&J sandwich on stale bread and a smile.

[tammywammy]

46. Sure, it opens DU up to scammers.

Use your best judgment. You're not forced to donate, nor are you shamed if you don't. I'll fully admit I think in all my years I've donated maybe twice to people on here. Like you, I'm a cynic. I'd rather give cash to the guy at the corner than a stranger on the internet.

If you want to give then do so, but don't feel guilty if you don't.

[CreekDog]

47. well let me tell you a story...once there was a fundraiser

and at the beginning of that fundraiser, a member joined DU to say that they were the significant other of someone else who had started the fundraiser.

and that it would be awesome if the other DUers would give to the fundraiser because it was for an awesome and totally legit cause.

then the fundraiser ended a couple weeks later and the poster stopped posting.

the end.

(and no, the poster I'm referring to didn't get banned...that's not why they stopped posting, they just stopped, perhaps because it was no longer necessary )

[FarPoint]

53. I say stay clear of them at this point.

DU is no longer the tight, bonded community of say, 2005. DU has erroded regarding the idea of community and trusting one another. Those days were great but times have changed.

Such threads should be locked ...UNLESS validation has been issued by the the Administration.

[Ruby the Liberal]

55. I believe in Karma

Not the reincarnation kind, but the what comes around goes around kind. "Present day karma" if you will.

I have fucked up and life bit me in the ass. Painfully and unrelated. I deserved every bit of it, too.

That said, one day about 2 years ago, I walked down to the Subway by work for lunch. 2 guys were panhandling outside, which was next door to a liquor store. I asked if they would like lunch and then held the door open. They followed me in, ordered what they wanted, I paid for all 3 meals and took my lunch and went back to work. About 2 weeks later, I found $200 in a old tattered wallet that I was getting ready to throw in the trash.

Call it woo if you like, but my conscience is clear.

Karma will work it all out.

[Laelth]

60. It bothers me not one bit ... for one simple reason.

[font color="blue" size="6"]We're all in this boat together.[/font]

YMMV



-Laelth

[rug]

65. +1000

[lovemydog]

109. Same here.

[1StrongBlackMan]

68. I don't think about it at all ...

Just like I don't think about it when someone approaches me on the street ... If I feel like giving, I do; if not, I don't. And my discussion has nothing to do with whether I think the person is deserving or trying to scam.

[TheKentuckian]

73. I run a democracy. My heart, my head, and my wallet each get a vote and I go from there.

I think everyone can be trusted to act similarly though obviously we don't want the site to turn into a wish list haven for scammed there are times when real people in the community might need a hand that isn't otherwise in the cards and I am very hesitant to ban earnest pleas.

[seabeyond]

75. it is tough. the one i am recalling is pretty much anti all democrat and certainly women.

doesnt leave me feeling all warm and fuzzy. but then it is not him in need so.... it really is not about him.

then, those wanting to donate can. those not able to or wanting to do not. personal choice.

[enigmatic]

76. I donated to Andy Stephenson for his medical bills

Never regretted it.

[Snotcicles]

90. Me too, Me neither. Voter Verified Paper Ballots. That was a hard time around here. nt

[enigmatic]

93. I miss Andy greatly

The time he was sick here and this board rallied behind him was the best of DU. There were a couple of outlier posters that attacked him, but they were few and far between for the most part.

The way this board has swung hard right into partisan hardlining since his passing, there's no way he would have gotten the same support he did back them. Factions here would have attacked him as viciously as FR did, and I don't want to think about how that would have affected both him and Termite at the time. The DU of today wouldn't have been nearly as united in trying to help him, and it saddens me to say that.

[Snotcicles]

96. I feel the same. That FR and paypal ordeal was disgusting. I Keep a lower profile than I use to. nt

[dionysus]

154. he was totally legit, though, provenly so... everyone knew he was...

[countryjake]

156. We all knew what he stood for, a tireless fighter for democratic principles...

a brilliant voice of our community, and there was no question that he needed our help.

I still grit my teeth when I think of the vileness of those who attacked him.

Peace to dear Andy.

[dionysus]

157. the freepers who put a hold on that money will burn in hell, if hell exists...

[countryjake]

160. If hell doesn't get 'em, Karma will...

[dionysus]

162. sadly, i stopped believing in karma. i'm good to everyone, yet still get the worst luck imaginable

[countryjake]

164. Yeah, I'm there, too.

Don't actually believe in any of that stuff, and I could write you a book on bad luck, but I don't believe in luck, either.
I did have a dear friend who wanted desperately to believe in reincarnation and he once told me that he wanted to come back as a spider in his next life, then he died. That was 43 years ago and I couldn't harm one of those little creatures if my life depended on it. Never know who might be in there.

But I hear ya about being dealt crappy shit time after time. And our numbers have increased a thousand-fold in the past twenty years, so we are not alone.

[maced666]

77. how does one know -

Because if we do know, I welcome the truly in need asking for help in a friendly forum.

[Blaukraut]

78. If a DU member is asking for another DU member, it's ok, I guess, but

I really dislike posts asking for donations for oneself or a family member, with a convenient link at which to donate already set up. Do I think these posts should be banned from DU? Not at all. I'm always free to not click on them.

[Lisa0825]

80. It does not bother me but I only donate to those I feel I know well enough to trust they're legit.

I honestly wouldn't care if I got scammed over a donation I could afford to make, and I don't donate anything I can't afford to give.

I wouldn't want the fear of scammers prevent those who really need help from getting it.

[elleng]

82. We use our best judgment,

as with other things.

[840high]

84. I don't mind.

[wyldwolf]

86. Hmmm... I'm going to ask for donations to fund proper DU study of this.

Seriously, though? I'm prone to do it. Although I'm not religious, something my grandmother use to say sticks with me: You're judged by your actions, not other folk's actions.

[Tree-Hugger]

87. I've received help from DUers and I have been scammed online

I've received help from many DU'ers, which included me putting my info up on Wishadoo. DU encouraged me to share my story elsewhere and I did, it went viral, and my family received a lot of help. It's very hard to ask for and accept help, to say, "okay, yes, please help me out." Even when you are extremely desperate, getting those words out is very difficult.

In addition to monetary help, I've have many here on DU offering advice (I had a car issue - I received a lot of advice to keep the repair cost down), budget tips, resources, etc. That's a wonderful part of any community - sharing your knowledge so that others may succeed. I also asked for and got prayers and groovy good vibes, which matter to me. Just knowing that people are holding you and your family in their thoughts is helpful - at least for me.

You do get judged. I understand the cynicism. I'm a mom of young kids and a blogger who centers a lot of content around parenting stuff. I've been participating in parenting and natural lifestyle communities online since the mid 1990's. I have seen some shit. There have been quite a few who would claim some sort of hardship, get donations, and later be revealed as a scammer. My first taste came back in the 1990's, when someone one a message board posted about her home catching fire. She said her family lost everything. I don't remember the exact details of how people found out, but it was later revealed that she had made the whole thing up. I had been thisclose to sending a donation. I felt sick about it, angry. Then, I felt a bit of compassion because I wondered what had gone wrong in this person's life that they needed to scam people like that. More recently, there was a big to-do in the online parenting blogger world about a woman who claimed she was pregnant with a baby with disabilities. People gave her money, supplies, etc. She posted pics of her baby....it was a doll. She later claimed her baby died. Many people were scammed and there's a lot about her on the interwebs. There are now websites and forums dedicated to parsing these people out - sometimes that is a good thing, other times it goes too far.

I think it's good to be cynical. I've been scammed by sob stories a couple of times. Thankfully, I was never out big money, but the betrayal hurts. Still, I choose to give when I can. It hasn't hindered my need to help people. There are people I know right now who are asking for help (not here) that raise my eyebrows and I half feel guilty for even suspecting anything. I know what it's like to have people accuse you of scamming people when you haven't. I've had quite a few forum threads dedicated to me - and not kindly. I've received comments on my blog, emails, PMs from people accusing me of being a scammer. It really makes you feel shitty, especially when they resort to personal attacks. And it's creepy to know people are picking apart every single word they can find from you online so they can prove you are lying. It's incredibly frustrating to know you haven't lied, haven't done anything wrong, and still there are people who say hateful things. I wasn't prepared for that. At the same time, I understand the cynicism. I understand the distrust. There are PLENTY of people who will try to take advantage of compassionate people.

For me, I believe in karma. If you lie to people and take advantage of their kindness, I full believe the karma bus will eventually comes for you. If I donate to someone and later find they are lying, I know my conscience is clear and their judgment will eventually come.

I say proceed with caution. Go with your gut. If you pray or believe in good energy, offer that up rather than $$ when you are suspicious.

[RedRocco]

88. nt

[img][/IMG]

[kentauros]

92. Then keep your money to yourself.

The rest of us will give as our hearts guide us, and share in the joy it brings others.

[malaise]

94. I'm a cynic too but there are long time DUers here who I would help if I could

Look we've been scammed more than a few times helping out people in real life (let alone the cyber world), but I'd rather help someone in need than worry about scammers. That said I'm always wary about newbies.

[Egnever]

97. I don't like it.

Not on an anonymous message board.

Having said that I dont have a problem with people who want to participate. I also would likely help out a DU member if I recognized their name as someone who had been a long time active member.

Out of all the threads of this type I have seen so far I have not yet recognized one of them. It is quite possible I have missed one from an active member I just have not seen one.

I am a cynic myself. I would be much more likely to give money to someone on the street than I would on any anonymous message board.

[Texasgal]

100. Think about all the money

we give to political campaigns!

I'd rather donate to an average DU'er than some campaigns I've given to!

[CreekDog]

203. most average DUers haven't been banned

[Texasgal]

209. Should they be?

I'm sorry, I'm confused by your post.

[CreekDog]

210. the fundraising plea that is being discussed in this thread is NOT from an AVERAGE DUer

you're saying you'd rather give to an average DUer. me too!

the poster in question is not an average DUer. the average DUer isn't anywhere near as conservative as he is, doesn't antagonize gun control supporters and doesn't get banned the way "cowman" his previous identity, got banned from here.

the average DUer doesn't go on Discussionist and call people "Demorats" and say "Democrat Party" and then tells people who disagree with him to "F--- off".

yes, I agree with you, I'd rather donate to the average DUer. he's not the average DUer. not only hasn't he been here long under this name, at the rate he's going, he won't be a DUer at all.

[Texasgal]

214. Gotcha.

In my defense my post was posted well before any of the other posts down thread. I understand now.

I apologize for my confusion.

[CreekDog]

215. No need to apologize

[bigwillq]

101. I have no issue with it, although I never donate.

But folks are free to do what they wish with their money.

[jwirr]

102. I told about a problem in a post but did not ask for help. Later a wonderful DUer emailed me and

asked if I would accept help. She helped me very much. I would be a hypocrite to say that no one should ask for help. But I would also say be careful because as was mentioned about above there are scammers even on DU.

[BlueJazz]

103. No Problem for me.

[Cha]

107. I feel it's okay.. we're somewhat of a family.. especially if it's someone I know through

years in cyberville. It's got to be hard to ask.. I wish I could give.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

108. Anybody have the comments on this?

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=5340305

[mopinko]

112. wtf

man, hosts are just makin shit up as they go along.
mods worked so hard to keep our heads on straight, and our eyes on the rules. it was so hard. there is just no governance around here any more.

[tammywammy]

113. that was hidden by a jury, not the hosts. n/t

[CreekDog]

204. you don't seem to understand what you're talking about

how embarrassing.

[Jefferson23]

114. Skinner is not against this, so why would anyone alert on that..that's wrong. n/t

[IronGate]

118. Apparently someone took issue with my posts at Discussionist,

and also is of the opinion that it's a scam.
Sad, I try to help my daughter and granddaughter and basically get crapped on by a few people.
Oh well, what can ya do?

[Jefferson23]

120. It's up to you of course, but you could ask Skinner if it's ok to put it up again.

I don't see why yours is off the table..good luck to your family.

[IronGate]

123. Thank you.

I think I'll just let it lay, I felt very uncomfortable in the first place posting it, but the information received from posters is very valuable.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

122. Your Discussionist posts were mentioned in the alert?

Would you like to post the jury results w/comments?

[IronGate]

125. I'll PM the results.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

127. Why not post em?

[A-Schwarzenegger]

129. Oh NOW I see. "DEMORAT", huh? You're a piece of work.

TWO transparency pages.

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=profile&uid=100028&sub=trans

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=profile&uid=100902&sub=trans

"La Raza is nothing more than a racist hate group."

^^^That was one of his hidden posts over there.

Another: "Demorat." with a cheering smilie.

Another: "Democrat party. I'll call it whatever the fuck I want and I don't need the likes of you telling me what to call it."

[JI7]

131. what is that ? i don't have an account at that site

so can't see

[A-Schwarzenegger]

133. He was banned twice for 5 hides, then for multiple accounts.

Thinks using the term "Demorat" is funny.

[JI7]

135. ok, now i can see why his was hidden

while the others are still up.

i have to admit i did find his story a bit questionable which i didn't get with others who asked for help.

[IronGate]

138. My daughter's story is not questionable.

It's a matter of record with the local law enforcement agency. But if people don't want to believe it, they're free to not donate.
No reason for me to pull a scam, I don't need money.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

139. I never said once I didn't believe it.

I asked to see the jury results in order to try to
understand why your post was hidden. It was
more about you as a poster, it appears, rather
than the post/request itself. 6-1 is pretty rare.

[LeftyMom]

148. If you don't need money handle your own family emergency.

People you call rats don't owe you shit.

[cwydro]

201. Ditto. nt

[JI7]

161. you must need money if you are asking people to donate and it's not a scam

[BainsBane]

174. If you don't need money

Why are you asking people here for donations for your daughter? That doesn't compute.

[IronGate]

192. As I said earlier,

we were helping her but due to a couple of events in our lives, we temporarily are unable to help.

This is not a scam, but if people don't want to donate that's fine, but any links to agencies that would help her would be greatly appreciated.

[countryjake]

208. With the rise of Sovereign Citizen financial scams & Redemption fraud ...

you surely must understand the wariness necessary when, out of the blue, a brand new DUer who has been posting quite prolifically during their short four months of membership, suddenly presents with a serious family crisis, unexpectedly pleading for monetary donations.

It's normal for people to want to protect their own, so I sympathize with your current plight...your situation of being cash strapped could also describe a goodly number of DU's membership and looming poverty is a common worry to many many of us here in the DU cyberworld.

Helping out when those of our community truly need assistance is rarely questioned and normally elicits a magnanimous response, but we are a Community and that requires that we also "protect our own", assuring that nobody is taken advantage of, giving their last dollar to possibly unscrupulous cons which have not been previously scrutinized and properly vetted.

I also have a daughter fast-approaching middle age; she is quite independent and self-assured, but women of today's world have no guarantee that being smart or self-sufficient can prevent them from finding themselves facing domestic-violence situations or being used and abused within their families. If my girl ever even hinted that she was experiencing such troubles, my time spent online here would end immediately, as assisting my only child is my priority.

[cwydro]

200. Wow

you asked money from peeps you insult?

And some gave to you. Not bad on them. Bad on you.

Bet you were laughing all the way to the bank.

You should be ashamed.

[CreekDog]

207. if you wanted the fundraiser to succeed why did you make it look like a swipe at unions?

was that gratuitous? it sure seemed like it to many here.

[CreekDog]

187. he's been banned here on DU also, see "cowman"

[IronGate]

132. Because I feel that would be a call out,

and I'd just rather let it lay.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

134. Calling yourself out is OK.

[JI7]

136. people post jury results all the time

[A-Schwarzenegger]

137. HERE...

On Tue Aug 5, 2014, 07:13 PM an alert was sent on the following post:

To all my fellow DU'ers.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10025340305

REASON FOR ALERT

This post is disruptive, hurtful, rude, insensitive, over-the-top, or otherwise inappropriate.

ALERTER'S COMMENTS

I have suspicions that this is a scam. This poster is known as a (banned) right winger at Discussionist:

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=view_post&forum=1015&pid=2318

http://www.discussionist.com/1015106277

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=profile&uid=100028&sub=trans

http://www.discussionist.com/?com=profile&uid=100902&sub=trans

and protests in advance of a challenge:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=5342445

Not sure how the jury could/should decide, and I hate to be the hall monitor, but I do hope the admins look at it.

JURY RESULTS

A randomly-selected Jury of DU members completed their review of this alert at Tue Aug 5, 2014, 07:21 PM, and voted 6-1 to HIDE IT.

Juror #1 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: This was a tough devasion because I would feel bad about hiding it if it were real, but I have never trusted this poster and my instincts tell me it is a scam.
Juror #2 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #3 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: Going long with what the alerter said and am voting for a hide.
Juror #4 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #5 voted to LEAVE IT ALONE
Explanation: Let the mods suss this out.
Juror #6 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: Good catch!
Juror #7 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given

[Starry Messenger]

151. Ooo, fascinating!

[BainsBane]

168. The Discussionist posts are something else

I wouldn't put any stock in what the cave says, however. They wouldn't out one of their real moles. That they identified him as one of theirs tells me he isn't.

Still, I remember him from that poll on household incomes and no way was I going to contribute to someone who makes that much more than I do.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

170. I know all I need to know about the fellow:

Anybody who gets a laugh out of "Demorats"
and considers La Raza a "racist hate group"
and gets banned for RW posts on 3 accounts at
that fetid swamp Discussionist ... Yeah, I'll get my
checkbook...

[BainsBane]

172. Yeah

You don't get banned from Discussionist for being a RWer. It was creating accounts to get around his time out that got him banned. Up thread he admits those were his posts. I can't imagine that can play well with the administrators. I hope they see that post of his admitting it. Those are not the posts of a Democrat.

[CreekDog]

175. lookie here

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=118&topic_id=320583&mesg_id=320617

[BainsBane]

177. I can't read his profile

Does it say what became of him?

[A-Schwarzenegger]

180. pushin' up daisies

[CreekDog]

181. "disrupted poorly"

i'll buy that.

[RandiFan1290]

183. Wow!

It takes a while but we eventually get the straight story....


...

[CreekDog]

188. i see what you did there

[hrmjustin]

218. Well done.

[hrmjustin]

219. Thanks for posting. Very informative.

[BainsBane]

171. Then those were your posts on Discussionist?

Those were not the posts of a Democrat. "Demorat" party? Really?

[cwydro]

211. I find it horrible

that good DUers donated to this creep

[trumad]

223. Wow!

My Op was inspired by this guy's plea for coin. After seeing every kind of poster over 13 years here at DU, you create a spidey sense of what is real and what is bullshit. This guy is no doubt a Right Wing douche and is no doubt full of shit with his money grubbing plea.

[CreekDog]

206. well to be fair, your fundraising appeal only has your credibility behind it

and you kind of trashed that through your actions here (cowman) and on Discussionist.

there was another fundraiser here this week that went without a hitch. there weren't these kind of issues or suspicions.

also, the reason people doubted you was the "union" thing in your fundraising appeal --it set alarm bells off for some.

[Kali]

121. I would like to see the alert and jury comments.

[IronGate]

126. I'll PM the results. nt

[JI7]

130. you should post it here

[cwydro]

212. You

should just go away.

Shame on you. Just shame.

Doubt you know what that is. But now legitimate pleas for donations will be ignored because of your greed and duplicity.

[BainsBane]

217. No doubt true

[AngryOldDem]

186. Kind of smacks of what I just posted downthread. n/t

[lovemydog]

110. If I don't feel like it, I don't give.

Particularly if I feel strapped for money. But I don't mind people asking. If it happened all the time though, I might feel somewhat different. Like you, I'm pretty cynical. And those were my questions as well. So I think it's good to discuss.

What it comes down to for me is that no one should ever give away money to a stranger that they or their loved ones might need for food, shelter or bills.

If they have it and feel like spending it, that's good because it circulates through the economy rather than being hoarded.

[Jefferson23]

111. Why not? If you can help, then help. No one is obligated to do so..I like that Skinner allows

people the opportunity to decide themselves. Some members have been here a long
time and others not so much...I don't think that matters much if people are in need and
there are relationships built here, and a sense of good will.

[Iron Man]

115. I don't trust people asking for money online.

It's hard to know what is legitimate and illegitimate when it comes to people asking for money because there are so many scams online.

I prefer to err on the side of caution.

[Digit]

116. I don't have a problem with people asking for help

Isn't our empathy one thing which separates us from Republicans?

Times are really bad and money is tight. I don't know about other people but I made much more money in 2000 than 2012 and later so I know I am not alone. My child is grown but try supporting one young child or MORE and expenses skyrocket.

Oh and when it comes to being able to discern whether it is a scam or not, it just doesn't come up and so far, I have never had a problem.

[JVS]

117. I remember a time when it was generally not done unless admin had given the ok.

[Kali]

119. I only wish I could do more -

wish I could help all who need it.

In one way I don't like to see those threads. I always feel helpless if I am in a tight spot myself and can't do anything.

I think most of these are people who have humbled themselves and are in such a bad spot that they had to try something. Sure some may be scammers, but I doubt that many are. I only ask that if they get ahead and have a chance to please pass it on.

It is not pleasant being desperate.

[BainsBane]

179. You're a kind soul

and that is true for many who ask for money, but the fact is scammers exist and they don't feel desperate. They are just out for an easy buck. People are wired differently. Whereas for many of us it would be very difficult to ask for money, others enjoy the sport of the con.

[Shankapotomus]

124. I kind of already factor in the liars and fakes when I give

I've given money to people who have approached me on the street that gave off vibes they were lying to me.

I figure if someone is desperate enough to lie about their situation for money, well, then perhaps they do need the money more than I do anyway.

As long as my own life is not severely impacted from it, I don't worry about it.

[Live and Learn]

128. What I wish is that there were no need for posts like those.

Especially in the 'richest' country in the world. Unfortunately, that is not the case. If that makes some of us uncomfortable than that is just too bad.

[longship]

140. Yup. Somebody's always going to piss in the punch bowl.

One can either donate, or not.

But some long time DUers need some help. Only a mean spirited person would malign a person for being down.

Please self-delete your post.

[CreekDog]

141. we get lied to regularly here on DU.

i can accept disagreement because in my own life, there are more people that disagree with my politics than agree.

but there are those here that pretend to agree with me, with us, or to be one of us, when they are nothing like us and they know it.

they're simply here to trick us for whatever trolly reason motivates them.

is it possible that some are tricking us for money the way others trick us over politics? of course.

so if i feel like i trust them, i'm open to listening and not being skeptical of a financial reqest.

if not, not.

[Phentex]

190. there was a person here who asked for money...

and I have no way of knowing what the real circumstances were. But people were helpful and generous at the time. Then I noticed that this poster really only ever said very negative things and was downright rude to others. Now, when you are really struggling, the world can be a dark and cloudy place and I get that. But I couldn't figure out why someone who had been helped here would return the favor by spouting only right-wing, hateful, "boot strap" type comments. Then one day, they just stopped posting altogether. Made me think the scam was up or they changed user names.

[countryjake]

142. "What I think is of no concern to you."

I gotta say, when someone hits me with a response such as that, in the middle of a discussion, and then, less than one short week later, appears to find themselves in such a desperate situation that donations are called for, my bullshit alarm rightfully tends to go off.

I guess I'm just a born cynic, too, trumad, and normally, I give to a worthy cause, including desperate panhandlers and the poor homeless, whenever we can spare the monies, but there are nasty scams all over the web that always seem "legit" enough, until they're not.

Thanks for this thread!

[BainsBane]

150. (sorry, wrong spot).

[dionysus]

143. yeah, buyer (or giver) beware... with people like Andy we knew they were legit... the random

"DU help me I'm broke" shit, does give one pause...

[mackerel]

146. I think like anything you have to do your homework and decide on a case by case basis. Everything

in life is potentially a scam. The thread I read a few days ago was by someone who had a history here. I checked the profile, I look at threads the person had posted on. The whole thing was legit. I remember reading threads earlier in the summer about a son passing. Now let me tell you about a real scam. I post on another site that has about 120 active members. On this site there is this one poster who has been there for about 10 years. Her deal is to make friends privately with people through DM/IM's and she shares little bits and pieces of her tragic life with whoever wants to befriend her. She eventually gets email addresses and sends funny little clips and Maxine crap and all that but at the same time she'll put in a little tidbit of how "she's not sure if she'll be able to get Sophie the dog any food for a few days. She had the spend the last of her SSI money on a new water heater oh and I saw this clip and thought of you and had to send it." She always adds LOL's after a few sentences. Eventually you end up sending her money, in my case quite a few times until I found out that there were many other people doing the same thing.

[BainsBane]

152. I'm naturally suspicious

Last edited Wed Aug 6, 2014, 03:42 AM - Edit history (1)

But I also don't understand why one person should have a thread hidden for making a request when others don't. Skinner said such appeals are allowed. It's up to potential donors to use discretion. The combination of my own economic circumstances and my cynical nature makes it unlikely I would give in such situations. I would have to feel like I knew the poster.

[JI7]

165. yeah, but after seeing the jury results i can understand and agree

with why that one specific one was hidden.

[BainsBane]

166. Are the results posted?

[JI7]

167. yes

post 137 in this thread

[BainsBane]

173. I have to agree with you there

After having read the posts on Discussionist and seeing him admit that he made them.

[CreekDog]

202. don't forget to look at the posts by "cowman" here on DU (same person), who was also banned

some really nasty stuff there.

[cwydro]

213. Very sorry

to know that some peeps donated to this horrid human.

[DrewFlorida]

158. I'm ok with them as long as they are limited in number.

I do have concerns for scammers, but I am also aware there are many people still out of work, out of homes, out of food, out of healthcare. I would rather err on the side of generosity than the side of skepticism. Of course, those requests which can be verified in whatever way is available are more attractive than those which cannot.

[LeftyMom]

159. The internet is scammers all the way down.

IMO more than one grifter has made a quick buck off of the kindness of people on this website.

Personally I'd advise people to stick to local needs and if you must help out DUers ask around and see if people you've met IRL can vouch for the person or their need. Ask questions, look for internal consistency or lack thereof.

Read up on serial grifters on the internet and see how they operate.

A few months ago somebody who claimed to be in my area was repeatedly shaking a cup at DUers for help with a move. When I contacted this person and offered the use of my truck they declined and suggested I pay their phone bill. Be suspicious of anyone who refuses help that isn't of the foldable green variety.

[Hekate]

163. Very uncomfortable. I understand when it's an old-timer with a group of friends...

I get that.

But lately there have been some folks I don't even recognize, and frankly it makes me uncomfortable. I have to walk on by.

[eridani]

176. I think that the validity of the request should be monitored by the administrators n/t

[LeftishBrit]

178. I think anything on the Internet can attract scammers.

No one is forced to donate; nor is it made public who has or hasn't donated.

In an ideal world, there would be someone administering and checking the donation requests. In the real world, that would probably cost more than it would save.

In an even more ideal world, there would be no need for donations, as people would not be left in poverty in the first place!

[sendero]

182. I have no problem with it..

.... but before I would send anyone money I would know, from their posting history, that they are probably telling the truth.

There is never a guarantee something isn't a scam, however, I don't want to be like a right winger and cut off all welfare because some small percentage of people receiving it are not deserving.

[riqster]

184. I never donate to anyone without a track record

Last edited Wed Aug 6, 2014, 07:44 AM - Edit history (1)

Be it an organization or individual. So a new DUer, no, not unless it was a person who could document a connection with a legit organization.

Long-time posters with a track record of activity on DU, they can be evaluated fairly.

Not that hard to filter the wheat from the chaff, really.

[AngryOldDem]

185. Do your due diligence.

Check things out before your donate, because yes, scammers are everywhere and you take a chance on getting conned every time you open your wallet.

This is what I particularly don't like about the Go Fund Me stuff. I made a small contribution to a family whose father was brutally killed in my city. I knew this was legit -- obviously. But soon after I started to get e-mail from all sorts of other Go Fund Me causes -- which I promptly deleted because I got the distinct impression I was being taken advantage of.

Bottom line: No one is making you part with your cash. As for posting such things on DU, perhaps this is a question for ATA.

EDIT: I see Skinner apparently has no issue with this per se, but maybe it's time to revisit if people are concerned...

[kelliekat44]

189. It's a matter of your own heart. Giving sincerely helps the giver as much a the receiver. Whether

the receiver is in real need or just scamming, the intention and motivation of the giver overshadows any scam that might be.

[Liberal_in_LA]

191. i donate. im ok woth it. ignore the thread if it bothers u. neg rec

[trumad]

226. That's not really my point...

We are a community, yes? As a community we should watch out for scammers, yes?

My Op was inspired by a thread that just got locked because the errr member is pretty questionable.

[Liberal_in_LA]

227. ok. i see

[NCTraveler]

193. It doesn't bother me but I do pass all of them over.

I have certain groups I donate to every year. They are local groups, the main one helping to provide healthcare to very low income individuals. It is a local "free" clinic. Other than that, the only individuals I give to are family members or neighbors in need. That takes up all of my resources.

[TBF]

196. With longterm DUers who have been consistently

progressive in their posting over the course of several years I can find some extra change to throw their way. I will give to folks along the highway too if approached (I don't keep much in my car - but if I have some extra quarters or dollar bills I will hope they use it for a meal). I'd rather err on the side of kindness.

If someone has been here just a few months and comes out of the gungeon (while disparaging union members) I'm going to have a harder time finding it within myself to help.

Like anything use your best judgment and if you are having trouble with your own bills let someone else pick up the slack.

[lonestarnot]

199. A fool and his money is soon parted. :)

[Rex]

205. Indifferent. We take our chances when we post, we take our chances when we donate money.

The WWW is a strange land.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

216. You have to use your own judgment.

In real life, I lost a friend of nearly forty years because she borrowed money from me and never paid it back. She was working too but couldn't make enough to pay me back. I quit loaning her money because I got depressed knowing I was a sap.


Here, I have not donated to anyone because I am not sure it is real. Yes, I'm doubtful.

[Algernon Moncrieff]

221. I wish Skinner would stop asking other DUers for donations

He's run a popular website for over 10 years now, so I assume that he has LeBron James money at this point. If DUers keep buying stars, he'll become dependent on us instead of developing a sense of independence and asking George Soros for the money like the rest of us would.

[ohnoyoudidnt]

228. I think you might overestimate the amount of money DU makes.

I'm sure Skinner makes a decent living , but he is nowhere near a 1 %er.

I seriously doubt he is even a multi-millionaire

[Algernon Moncrieff]

229. Certainly that's what he tells the IRS

Meanwhile, EarlG and Elad are trying to find him an offshore account

[akbacchus_BC]

222. I tend to think that they are honest and not trying to scam anyone on here! If I could help,

I would. People are really suffering these days but honestly, some have no recourse, and if they are a part of our community, we should try to help. That is my feeling but I could be wrong!

[pipi_k]

224. I have mixed feelings

ranging from empathy to suspicion to cynicism to guilt and probably more on top of that.


I did contribute once here at DU. I've forgotten who the person was, but I clearly remember what it was for.

Now, I don't give with the expectation of getting anything in return, but you know, it would be freaking nice if the person who received donations for something came back to give everyone who donated an update. I don't even know if this person thanked anyone, and since I don't recall the person's name, I don't even know if this person is still a member or not. This was some time ago, on DU2.

Anyway, it put a bad taste in my mouth, but that's just me.

As far as this so called problem of people not having any other recourse, I really have to ask the question...

What the hell did people do before the internet??

Are we supposed to believe that all the agencies around to help people in need suddenly disappeared?


Anyway...people can do what they want to. I have my own charities I donate to, plus I have a grandson whose parents don't know how to manage their money. If it was just the two of them, I would let them deal with their own problem. But since a child is involved, and I know his situation, I help out however I can, usually by sending money for clothing, since he's a growing boy. I know how the money is being spent, and it makes me feel good to know that my grandson isn't going without some of the things he needs.

[dembotoz]

225. if we profess to be a bettler bunch of folks than the other side we should on occasion

be open to this sort of thing on a limited basis.

that being said i am somewhat of a hypocrite because i have not donated to any of them more due
to my lack of discretionary funding as opposed to anything else.

[akbacchus_BC]

230. Some are legit but I suppose the requesters got a go ahead

from the Admins. I feel so sorry for people who have to come here for help and I can't help as am in Canada unless they have a paypal account to receive monetary help. People are struggling!

[mulsh]

231. I am fine with the ones that Skinner approves, I'm suspicious of the ones that don't mention his

approval. Didn't Skinner post his approval when we raised funds for Andy? ditto for Helen?

I may be wrong but a few recent donations requests seemed to fail to mention Skinner's approval.

When we were raising funds for Andy I gave, When we've bought flowers for Helen Thomas I've gave.

I may not have a high post count but I've been here under a couple of names since around the beginning.
It seems to me donation requests have increased in recent years.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

233. The Admins neither approve nor disapprove of such requests.

We're on our own.