BALTIMORE (October 26, 2007) – Maryland Secretary of Aging Gloria Lawlah is cautioning all Maryland residents—especially seniors who are active members of their local senior centers—to be aware of a recent fundraising scam being conducted by a Maryland-based outfit called “The Senior Center.”
A solicitation letter is being sent to seniors indicating that The Senior Center is in danger of running out of money and asks for donations of $20 or more. Many seniors who receive this letter may believe the organization is raising money for their local seniors center. This is not the case according to Lawlah. Money donated to this group will not go to senior centers in Maryland.
“I encourage Maryland residents who want to contribute money to their local senior center(s) to call the center directly to learn about their fundraising programs and campaigns,” said Lawlah in a prepared statement. “This is another attempt to target seniors and vulnerable adults, which is a crime.”
Attorneys General from other states have also reported this scam being conducted in their states.
Seniors and other Marylanders with questions and concerns about legitimate fundraising and charitable organizations should contact:
The Maryland Attorney General
410-576-6500 or Toll Free: 1-888-743-0023
www.oag.state.md.us/seniors.htm
The Office of the Secretary of State – Charitable Organizations Division
410-974-5534 or Toll Free: 1-800-825-4510
www.sos.state.md.us/Charity/Charityhome.htm