I go all etiquette grrl...
I just wrote my first ever letter to an etiquette columnist:
Dear Honore,
I've found your column in our local free weekly. I enjoyed the first few letters and found your style humorous and on-target. That is, until I read your answer to "Confused." It seems you believe that all charitable organizations are created alike. As a former manager of volunteers for a not-for-profit I can tell you that is not true.
First, many organizations may be not-for-profit and request donations. It doesn't mean they are doing charitable work. Perhaps your writer knew the donation had gone to such an organization. Second, charitable organizations come in all political flavors. Would you appreciate a donation in your name to a group working hard to end a freedom you enjoy? Not only is the gift-giver working against your hard work, but now you're on a mailing list for an organization you can not support in all good conscience. Finally, I believe you missed the chance to educate the gift givers who read your column. If one is to give a donation in another's name first make sure the recipient can agree with the work of the organization. If you don't know the person well enough to know their politics or moral compass then choose another gift. Better yet, send the donation to an umbrella organization such as United Way and allow the recipient to earmark the donation for an organization of her/his choice.
Thank you for your time.
Liberal in Louisville
The column I responded to is here for now.
