The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce was recently made aware of a possible donation scam occurring within the business community of Montgomery County. The issue was brought to the Chamber’s attention through one of their members that was contacted by the Montgomery County Letter Carriers Association soliciting donations as a fundraiser. The caller reported that they were working with the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and when the business person asked for a phone number, the caller hung up.
The Chamber contacted two post offices and to their knowledge this organization does not exist. While there appears to be a National Association of Letter Carriers and National Rural Letter Carriers Association that may have local chapters, the Chamber is not currently working with either organization. “We generally alert our members through letters, our newsletter, and emails when we are about to embark on a project in which our members might be solicited for advertising or promotion,” remarks Chamber President, Deborah Auspelmyer. “While we periodically ask our members for sponsorships of events and programs, it is never done through a third party without prior notification directly from The Chamber. Don’t hesitate to call us for verification of our participation in any programming or fundraising,” states Auspelmyer.
There are many valid organizations within Montgomery County that raise money annually. Following are simple guidelines you can follow to keep yourself safe.
- Do not let anyone pressure you into making decisions about money.
- If someone comes to your door, ask to see their identification. You do not have to let them in and they MUST leave if you ask them to.
- If you receive a phone call for donations, always ask for the name of the person you are speaking to and who they represent.
- Do not give your personal, credit card, or online account details over the phone.
- If you think the organization is suspicious ask for more information and do not hesitate in contacting local authorities.
Please contact The Chamber at 842-8200 with any questions or concerns.