Posted at 8 a.m. Friday, Feb. 29

No one can argue with the value of helping someone less fortunate. But you can be annoyed by the way the do-gooder goes about that task.

I have a few problems with Oprah Winfrey’s new reality show, “Oprah’s Big Give.” The show, which begins at 9 p.m. Sunday on ABC, mashes together “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and “The Amazing Race” by sending 10 competitors across the country to assist several down-on-their-luck people.

The show is self-congratulatory from the start, as Winfrey declares that thousands of people auditioned “even without mention of a prize.” Viewers repeatedly are reminded that the contestants don’t know they could win $1 million.

Somehow I’m sure they know they’ll get something. I say this because when Winfrey calls each of the 10 to say they have been picked, they react as if they’re shocked. How surprised could you possibly be when cameramen have shown up to film you take a call from Oprah?

“Big Give” also manipulates its audience. You’ll be reaching for the Kleenex as you meet the sob stories needing help in the premiere. They include a recent widow with two kids, a homeless mom and a physician with $200,000 in loans who wants to do volunteer work.

I’m not sure why the doctor is included—everyone else is in truly dire straits. Hey “Big Give,” I have a car loan I’d like to pay off. Wanna help?

Host Nate Berkus sends one contestant is sent packing each week. It’s up to the show’s judges—“The Naked Chef” Jamie Oliver, NFL player Tony Gonzalez and Chris Rock's wife and charity founder Malaak Compton-Rock—to decide which contestant didn’t give enough. Apparently, there is a doing-good bottom line, and it breeds a competitive spirit that seems inappropriately paired with the spirit of generosity.

My final issue with “Big Give” is motive. Everyone opens their wallets when the contestants call. But who wouldn’t for a chance to plug their business on an Winfrey special?