Called at 9:21am this morning, some guy wanting to collect money for his charity - I hung up before he could say much.
I would suggest no one contribute any money to anyone under any circumstances unless you know exactly who the group is and that they are legitimate.
Ask for:
1 - their complete organization name
2 - callers full name
3 - their IRS tax ID number (IRS must list them as tax exempt org before you can deduct $ on return)
4 - % of total contributions actually donated for any real purpose other than going into their pockets
(good organization contribute 75-90% of the money collected, not less than 15%!!!!)
5 - all literature about their organization, either for mailing or online website
Review all these things BEFORE doing anything else.
Never give any credit card info over the phone before you review everything and you're 100% sure they are worthy and legitimate.
If they look good AFTER all that, then decide if you want to contribute.