Having worked for police and firefighter fundraising organizations myself, there are a few things you need to know. Under Pennsylvania Law it is illegal for police and firefighters to make soliciting calls for money, it is known as "strongarm tactics" and sets up a conflict of interest for the public, so the Fraternal Order of Police and the International Association of Fire Fighters hire fundraising companies to call for them. The F.O.P. and I.A.F.F. and the fundraising company agree that a certain percentage will be given to each usually 20% to 50% depending on the type of fundraiser ie., a show, a patron book or a sticker drive, now you need to realize that you are allowed to ask certain questions when called. Is this my local (town, city, county) F.OP. or Fire Fighting organization?
Do they provide verification phone #'s to the local organization and who is the contact there.
Also ask what percentage goes to the F.O.P. or Fire Fighting Organization. You must also realize that there is a cost taken on by the fundraiser for the organization they are raising funds for. If it's a show, the entertainment must be paid for, the rental of where it is being held, cost of clean up, and insurance policy in case something happens.
Also if they ask for a credit card, DO NOT under any circumstances give it to them. Also be sure it is LOCAL, there are plenty of organizations that are not local that will call under the guise that they are, examples, anyone who says they are calling from a NATIONAL organization, you local FOP or IAFF will see little to no money from these places. One other thing and I know this is a big read, but let me finish by saying any reputable fundraiser will not share your information with anyone and upon request MUST remove you and put you on their PERSONAL do not call list, as Police and Firefighter Organizations are exempt from federal and state Do Not Call list for fundraising purposes. I hope I've clarified some things for you.
Spam bots. Pre-recorded voice asked how I was and I literally just said "What? What?" and it responded something like, "Great!" and I got pissed and hung up as it started reciting some spiel about Pennsylvania's firemen's association, which I know has never solicited my money before.
Best advice ..... Hang up on them you have everything to loose and nothing to gain by engaging any of these people they are only a voice on the phone that will screw you ! Just say no and hang up !