As one of the 'morons' who gave money to Japworks, here's my take...

A minister once asked the congregation how many gave to charity. Of course, almost everyone raised their hands. He then asks how many would give to a guy on the side of the road with a sign. Far fewer people. Number 1 reason, people were afraid the guy would buy booze instead of food.

The minister then explained how that wasn't the way to look at it. You give what you can, to who you think needs it. Regardless of how they actually use it, you have done a good thing. Let them deal with the consequences of misusing it.

I gave Aaron $25, because I could, and I wanted to. As a former small business owner myself (who actually almost did work for Joe Dono), I felt it was the right thing to do. I'm hoping he used it to pay a lawyer, or put food on the table, but if he bought booze and cigs with it, that's his problem, not mine. If its a scam, I'm out $25, but the big problem is again with him, not me.

All that being said, anyone has the right to give or not give to anyone or any cause they choose. And it makes sense that some people will want to know where their money is going. If the 'cause' doesn't answer to your satisfaction, then don't give. It makes little sense to continue battering the 'cause' or those who have given to it before or after you. Move on to another.

Toby