Finding a charity

Today’s Sound Off is about finding the charity you wish to contribute to:

DEAR HELOISE » I enjoy giving to charity, but I have discovered in the past that some of the charities I gave to were nothing more than scams. I also do not like to give to charities that have CEOs or other governing members who are given enormous salaries. I want my donations to go to those in need. But my question is, How do you tell the difference between the charities that are worthwhile and those that are not?

There are so many people who need help, a place to live and food, as well as children and animals who are abused. I sincerely want to help, but where do I go to find the charities that do the most good? Can you advise me?

— Harriet L., Mesa, Arizona

Fast facts

WANT TO KEEP YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS? TRY THESE SUGGESTIONS:

-- Place a sticky note on your bathroom mirror or desk and near the phone.

-- If you’re dieting, display a picture of yourself when you felt your best on the refrigerator door.

-- In quiet moments, recite the resolutions to yourself.

-- Reward yourself in some way when you keep your resolutions.

Passwords

DEAR HELOISE » I go to a number of sites to watch a movie, shop or look up information, and all of them require a password. I know you have advised people to not use the same password, but I can’t remember the different passwords for each location. Most sites will only let you try a different password two or three times before they lock you out. How can I sort out passwords for these sites, especially when they periodically ask me to change my password? It gets so confusing!

— Jacob Y., Colorado Springs,

Colorado

Whole lot of shaking

DEAR HELOISE » It seems every time I buy a can of beans some get stuck to the bottom of the can and I have a hard time getting them out. Finally, my daughter told me to shake the can vigorously before opening, and sure enough, no more beans stuck on the bottom. — Karen F., Niagara Falls, N.Y.