Carmel on the Case: Charity

WSVN -- Maybe you've seen men dressed in military uniforms collecting donations and handing out flags. Jack Koning sees them all the time and contacted us because he wanted to know if they were legit.

Jack Koning: "I always question the validity of these guys, and if they really are what they're representing."

The men say they are all veterans and told me the money they collect for the Disabled Veterans Foundation and is used to help homeless veterans.

Richard Stabile: "And we provide food and shelter for these gentlemen with the funds that are donated from the good people in the community."

The foundation is one of two charities currently working the streets with men in uniform.

Richard Stabile: "I can tell you straight up I'd be dead today if it wasn't for this organization."

Carmel Cafiero: "I get dozens of e-mails and calls every year from people wondering about charitable organizations. Some check out like the Disabled Veterans, but others don't."

Jack Koning: "That's the main worry, is this really going to a veterans organization that is real and helping the right people?"

You can do some quick research to make sure you're donating to a reputable organization.

The Internet can be a big help. For starters, Florida requires all charities register with the state. Through the State Division of Consumer Services you can find out who is operating a charity and how much of the money it collects goes for its stated purpose.

Charity watchdogs say, in most cases, at least 60 percent of money raised should go to helping people. The Disabled Veterans Foundation says it does better than that.

Jean-Luc Veraguas: "67.59 percent goes to the Veterans. The rest we have to pay for gas, we have to pay for repairs, some office."

Carmel Cafiero: "Do you pay salaries? Do you take a salary?"

Jean-Luc Veraguas: "No, I don't."

Carmel Cafiero: "Do you pay anybody else salaries?"

Jean-Luc Veraguas: "No, I don't."

Jean-Luc Veraguas didn't hesitate when I asked to see firsthand what he was doing with the money his organization is collecting.

Jean-Luc Veraguas: "This is our facility, and we call it Tranquility. This is where we house and feed and clothe our veterans."

He says this home is one of three where up to 27 veterans can be housed.

Bobby Brooks: "It's given me a place to live. It's given me stability in my life. It's kept me clean and sober. It's kept me around people that are like me, that can relate to me as far as being in combat."

Carmel Cafiero: "It takes some effort to check out a charity, but it's one way to make sure your donation dollars count, and these days that's more important than ever."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Checking Out A Charity:
http://app1.800helpfla.com/giftgiversguide

IF YOU HAVE A STORY FOR CARMEL TO INVESTIGATE:

Miami-Dade: 305-627-CLUE
Broward: 954-921-CLUE
E-mail: clue@wsvn.com