Q: I just filed my income taxes. I believe in sharing and making donations to charitable nonprofit organizations, but since my income is not predictable I wait to write my gift checks until mid-December every year.

I receive frequent mailings requesting money from the same organizations. I find this irritating and a waste of their time and money. I have notified several fundraisers of my feelings but haven't received a response.

Do you have a solution as to how to make their organizations more efficient and effective?

A: Unfortunately, many charities use the same techniques and haven't found better ways to send out their solicitations. These tactics sometimes backfire, when donors either quit giving or move to a new charity of their choosing. If you believe in an organization's mission, threatening to discontinue giving to it isn't the solution.

In many cases, after sending in a check you'll immediately receive a donation request for more money. It may include small gifts to encourage you, but it is extremely frustrating.

Getting off mailing lists can be challenging and difficult because charities often trade donors' names or buy prospect lists.

The Direct Marketing Association offers a great online tool called DMA Choice, which can be found online. This organization manages more than 80 percent of all marketing mail sent in the United States, and you can remove your information from particular charity mailing lists, as well as the lists of catalogs, magazines and credit card offers.

You shouldn't have to move just to escape piles of mail! — Doug

LEAVING A LEGACY

Q: Nobody lives forever, but I've always wanted to leave something behind from which my relatives can benefit. I've learned a lot from all my life experiences, and I want to share that hard-gained wisdom with my children and their children (and so on).

My problem is that I don't know how to start. I want to write a book of memoirs or advice, but I haven't written down a single page. Any ideas?

A: When asked how he writes, prolific author Stephen King says that he invariably responds, "One word at a time." Instead of viewing writing as driven by inspiration, approach it systematically. Since you already know your subject, focus on organizing your thoughts.

First, get yourself into the habit of writing. Consider writing a daily journal entry or list of ideas or events you'd like to share. With consistent practice, you'll find yourself become more efficient and focused. You might include some of this writing in your book.

Second, think of examples of your best advice or anecdotes and write them down. If it's a story you've told a million times, you could record yourself and then transcribe it. Ask loved ones for examples of you helping them.

Then, look at what you've written down and compare what the items have in common. You might excel at situational advice (like how to welcome people) or have great anecdotes about a wide variety of people.

Whatever your style is, focus on your strengths. Choose a format that works, and sit down and write. You can edit later. — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.