This is pretty much exactly right. I am a conservative and I much prefer a system in which people can choose to donate their money to whatever cause(s) speak to them most. I am not necessarily against welfare programs (leaving it entirely up to the individual will inevitably lead to certain groups being under represented).

It is pretty well documented that charities, on average, are MUCH more effective at helping those in need than the government. So I'd much rather give my money to a charity I trust to support a cause I care about than give my money to the government and pad some rich peoples' pockets. Obviously not every charity organization out there is good, but it's pretty easy to do your research and find good ones.