I found out about "pro bono" scammers and "flipping" from one of my ads on eHam.
To avoid being a victim of these scumballs, I suggest:
1. Ask if they are legally organized or registered in your state. Non-profit organizations generally have to register with the State just like businesses. In some states, they have to register with the Attorney General's Office.
2. Ask if they have a Taxpayer Identification Number and what it is. Everybody needs either a Social Security Number or a T.I.N to open a bank account.
3. Ask if they are registered with the IRS as a 501.C3 charitable organization. Ask them to show their papers from the IRS.
4. Ask if they've ever filed a 1090 Information Return with the IRS. Every charitable / n0n-profit organization taking in more than $30,000 MUST report to the IRS to maintain the "exempt" status.
Probably you won;t have to get through 2 through 4; #1 should be enough to send the scammers/flippers packing.
GOOD LUCK AND GOOD HUNTING!!!
N9LCD