There’s a distinction between the term “charities” and  “non-profits” even though here in the U.S, we use the two interchangeably.

From Wikipedia:

• A nonprofit organization (abbreviated as NPO, also known as a not-for-profit organization) is an organization that does not distribute its surplus funds to owners or shareholders, but instead uses them to help pursue its goals.

• A charitable organization is a type of non-profit organization (NPO). The term is relatively general and can technically refer to a public charity (also called “charitable foundation,” “public foundation” or simply “foundation”) or a private foundation. It differs from other types of NPOs in that its focus is centered around goals of a general philanthropic nature (e.g. charitable, educational, religious, or other activities serving the public interest or common good).

While there are many nonprofit organizations (and many types) their activities merit a second look because the definition can be very broad.  Charities on the other hand are specific to social good.

Below is a comparison between non-profit and charities’ activities during times of crisis:

“The first two arrows point to the 2004 tsunami and Hurricane Katrina disasters. The other arrows point to the seasonal peaks in giving every year…there is a…stark comparison between the two terms during times of disaster.  The lesson is: Yes, you are a nonprofit but use the word charity if you’re the kind of nonprofit that is sought after during disasters.”

Although there are many good non-profits, charities may be the shinning example of selfless acts.

Remember, change or social good starts with individuals not organizations.

In an error of Change, where people are once again thinking globally, here’s your chance to give back, now and always – once you start to care, you will never stop caring.

I truly believe that the world will change with the power of non-profit organizations, and humanitarianism.

So, If you’re a blogger, Latino/a (Hispanic/Xicano/Cuban/Boriqua/Taino…human and care about children), then post this widget (hit copy), on your blog or social media site (customizable here).

If you don’t do social media, then just give.

Looking forward to be participating in the LATISM DC Live Twitter party via Tweetchat (you can follow this link to observe some of the tweets and comments happening right now at the DC conference).

The goal is to provide tips for professionals and organizations on how to use social media.

You can observe or participate. Here are the details:

LATISM DC TWITTER PARTY DETAILS
DATE: Saturday, December 12, 2009 during the Latism DC Conference
TIME: 1:45 pm to 2:30 pm
TOPIC: Twitter tips for newbie businesses
AUDIENCE: Latino non-profit and corporate executives, professionals
HASHTAGS: #Latism #LDC (or use this link)