DEAR MISS MANNERS: I donated to a fundraiser through a friend who volunteered at the organization. She sent me a monetary thank-you, saying to go have lunch on her.
It left me feeling awkward -- almost like getting money back on what I donated. Is that an appropriate way to express gratitude? It felt weird, and it made me feel like I should not accept that cash. What should I do?
GENTLE READER: It is weird. In that context, it looks something like a kickback, although Miss Manners hopes that your friend was merely succumbing to the crass idea that payments are always welcome.
You must thank her, of course. But you might enclose the money, saying you would like to make an additional donation to the charity.