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Columbia's Bill Lindsey is an angel, at least according to South Carolina Secretary of State Mark Hammond. 

Hammond recognized 20 organizations during this year's listing of "scrooges" and "angels." Lindsey is the executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. He says the Columbia-based organization is proud to give back 87 percent of its donations to those in need throughout the Midlands.  

"We're successful in returning so much of that money back into services and programs because our folks, as they volunteer, also have loved one's involved in this," said Lindsey. "And they all have such great passion."

Another South Carolina charity, Country Santa--which is out of Pickens County--can also be found on the nice list for their efforts in making the holiday brighter for thousands of children.

"The children expect the toys they get from the Country Santa program," said Country Santa representative David Watson. "It's a huge responsibility and the group has shouldered it well."

Charities giving too little to programs or giving too much to professional fundraisers are this year's "scrooges."

Hammond encourages everyone to continue giving during the holidays and beyond. He also suggests before donating money, you donate your time getting to know more about the charity.

Scrooges and Angels List
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