To the editor:

I am responding to the news item in Sunday’s Bulletin in which the North Carolina Department of Public Safety urges people who wish to donate to Hurricane Matthew relief to donate to “reputable organizations.”

In looking over their NCVOAD recommendations online, I note many non-profits listed that have paid executive and administrative staffs. Some even pay professional fundraisers. Therefore, some portion of your donation is siphoned off for these expenses, legitimate though they may be.

I would like to suggest that you send a check to the Columbus Lions Club, and we will in turn send one check to Lions International. Why? Because 100 percent of your money will go to help the victims.

How is that good? Lions International has already sent large sums to Lions Clubs in the disaster area, where local Lions spend the money where most needed. No politicians or other agencies are involved, just local Lions helping their neighbors.

All administrative expenses of Lions International are paid by member Lions’ dues. All Lions are volunteers, including the international president. The same is probably true for Rotary, Kiwanis and other civic organizations.

Our Lions motto is “We Serve” and that is what we are all dedicated to doing, both in our communities and internationally.

~ Fran Goodwin, President, Columbus Lions Club