i know i asked about donation favors but...

Also, I don't think you put down the individual guest names...we ar writing:

We have made a donation in your name
and in loving memory of our grandparents, who are, we know, here with us today in spirit
and forever in our hearts.

list of their names

to Make a Wish Foundation

This gift will help bring hope, strength, and joy to the life of a courageous child.

Although very well known, the American Cancer Society is not as reputable as people think. They are one (of many) charities run by the Reese Brothers and donate actually VERY LITTLE of what is taken in to the actual research and charity. Take a look at Elliot Spitzer's 'Pennies for Charity' report published annually.

You may need to go back a couple of years to see the actual name 'American Cancer Society'. ACS has been trying to get their name off the list for years and has actually done telemarketing campaigns under different names. They had typically donated about 3% of the received proceeds to actual charitable causes. If you search the document for 'Reese Brothers' you will see other charities run by this duo and how much (rather, how little) they actually give.

Here are a couple of links that should get you started.

www.oag.state.ny.us/charities/pennies02/penintro.html

www.oag.state.ny.us/charities/pennies04/penintro.html

Additionally, years ago, my step-father was battling cancer and when asked for help, the American Cancer Society refused to help him. I'm sure there are many others who share a similar story.

My suggesstion is that if you are truly looking to do something charitable, search the web for a more reputable charity. There are many, many out there in dire need of help. Here's a site that should get you started:http://www.charitywatch.org/toprated.html

I hope this helps anyone that is looking to give back a little and my apologies if I offended anyone

We are doing Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America organization. They are very underfunded and the money really does help match kids to adults, at least the branch here in LA. My FH was a big brother for many years until his guy grew up so we thought it would be a perfect place to donate.

Cool- I just checked with Charity watch and they are on the approved list and received an A+!

Fortunately you're getting married in October, not sure if you already know this but that's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society holds a walk every year at Jones Beach, you can bring your donation down to them that morning or send it in. Here's a link to their website . I've headed a group of co-workers for the past few years in it, FM me if you want more info.

don't forget the Komen Foundation. They do great work for Breast Cancer Research. You can also choose a local hospital that does breast cancer research and treatment, like LIJ, Memorial-Sloan Kettering, or NewYork Presbyterian. If you had a loved-one receive treatment at a local hospital, it may be meaningful for you to donate more locally to support their efforts.

Don't mind me, I'm a fund-raising consultant

One the most comprehensive resources for charity research is GUIDESTAR. I agree - definitely do your research because there are tons of charities out there for breast research alone.

We still haven't chosen one, though we've got it narrowed down. Good luck!