Return unwanted address labels to sender

DEAR AMY: I have enough return address labels to last for 50 years, sent to me from charities wanting my support. Maybe I could use a few dozen of the labels to mail the charity calendars thatare now accumulating. At least the labels last for more than a year! I used to send a token donation to cover the value, on the theory that if I actually use the material it's valid to send a contribution. Now it's gotten out of control, and, if I don't send any contribution, I get a follow-up letter. I know these organizations need help, but you can't support everything! Amy, I need your wisdom here. Do you have a nice, easy perspective on this less-than-earth-shattering issue?

Inundated With Mail

DEAR INUNDATED: Controlling this unwelcome attention starts at the first point of contact. By receiving a check from you "to cover the value" of the labels, these groups have identified you as an easy mark.

So you should start by ignoring or returning any unwanted solicitations along with a note asking to be taken off the list.

Contribute only to groups you have researched enough to know they are legitimate and whose missions you support. Ask charities you support not to provide, rent or sell your contact information to other groups.

Recently I found myself swamped with mail sent from a group I support and have contributed to in the past. I contacted the group and told them that if they sent me further solicitations by mail or called me on the phone, I would stop contributing. That seemed to work.

The American Institute of Philanthropy offers a very helpful page of tips to stop unwanted solicitations, including ways to get your name off direct marketing lists.

Check the AIP website at charitywatch.org.