So I'm thinking

yellowroses510

that Idol Gives Back is probably the biggest waste of television air time ever. Yes, they raise awareness and $$, but it's nothing but a big pity party. If you want change, you can't just raise money one night of the year and then say you've "done your part" to help save the world.

goin2thechapel2

so instead maybe they should not raise any money at all and not help anyone.  They are helping people.  Last year they raised 76 million.  They are changing things.

Brooke White

I am so glad that you feel that way as well because I was feeling like a lonely, heartless person.  Idol was created for entertainment, not to be a telethon.  I like Idol but I'm not donating money to them.  I have organizations that I support regularly.

yellowroses510

Ditto. It's like giving a dollar to a homeless person and saying that you've changed their life.

ryanserafin

I agree, Angie.  It's a program that appeals to the lowest common denominator: people who are too lazy and ignorant to get out there and make a real difference.  I'm sure most of the people who are donating have no clue that the organizations who receive funds from Idol Gives Back are only getting a portion of the contribution.  Cut out the middle man, for pete's sake, and make direct contributions people!  Better yet, volunteer your time.

While there are several world charities that benefit from the donations, the local ones are easy to contribute to:  Boys and Girls Club of America, America's Second Harvest, Save the Children.

Letting people think that throwing a couple of bucks at a huge issue is any way to solve the problem is not the way to go- it's a short term solution to a long term problem- like putting a bandaid on a broken leg.  Pretty stupid.

yellowroses510

It's a ratings gimmick. "Let's bring out Brad Pitt and then people will watch!" No. Giving $5 to a major fund won't change anything. Most of the organizations that received funds last year didn't receive the $70+ million that they raised. I prefer to give to my local chairities instead.