Each of us has to do our own personal due diligence, as well as due diligence on the charity to which we are giving, before we invest, says Ann Fritschner of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. "Both the donor and the organization should look at their expectations up front."

A study by the New York University School of Law found a general reluctance on the part of charities and donors to commence legal proceedings against one another. Into what is supposed to be a benevolent relationship, few want to introduce malice. However what may not play out in a judicial court sometimes does in the court of public opinion.

"There has been a shift in thinking from the nonprofit’s perspective and the donor’s perspective," says Tim Seiler, director of the Fundraising School and Public Service at Indiana University’s Center on Philanthropy. "It’s fine to feel good, but donors want to feel they are also making a good investment."

As the nonprofit world comes more and more to resemble the for-profit world in terms of its business practices, so too may change the feel-good relationship between philanthropist and philanthropy. This means embracing business-like practices to accomplish goals.

To protect themselves, donors should proceed slowly. "Join a committee first," recommends Fritschner. "Once you get to know the organization and get comfortable with the people and the programs, then make a board level commitment; it’s like dating before you get married."

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Illustration by Jonathan Barkat