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The non-profit sector is quite large. Did you know the number of non-profit organizations in the USA as per the latest study stands at 1.5 million? The National Center for Charitable Statistics has registered this number, including the private foundations, public charities, and other non-profit organizations.

With such a high number, it would be pretty difficult to discern which one of the reputable charities, deserves your donation. It’s not that hard anymore. If you want to make sure your donation is going to the right place, read further, and we’ll let you know.

How to Find Reputable Charities

Looking for the best charity to donate to can be nerve-wracking. There are many varieties, including:

● Cancer charities
● Children protection
● Animal welfare
● Environment
● Health – mental or general
● Veteran military officials
● Police

As so, searching through this turmoil could need some assistance. Look below for the ultimate guide on the most reputable charities.

1. Use Resources to Search

For many years now, third-party organizations have made it their agenda to source out, vet, and rate these non-profit organizations. This has made it very easy for one to search over the net and make an informed decision.

They search various categories including small or large organizations and different types of organizations.

GiveWell

Their field of expertise is international aid or global health. This resource center does vetting through sophisticated data technology where, after analysis, they produce reports on the best opportunities for donors. They illustrate which charities would largely benefit from additional funding.

Philanthropedia

On a wider base, Philanthropedia deals with local, national, and international charities. They offer expert advice for charities dealing with international disasters, violence on women, and climate change.

Their researchers, professionals, and senior staffs work to showcase on the best and worst charities to donate to.

Charity Navigator

Commonly known to give ratings under consumer reports, this organization has rated over 9000 charities. They look over finances and general performances.

Every month they have new ratings and top ten listings. Although they aren’t all inclusive as per different types of charities, they have the answer to what charity should I donate to.

CharityWatch

The charity watch is another grade master by the American Institute of Philanthropy (AIP). They rate the effectiveness and efficiency of charities based on their total expenses.

According to the BBC Wise Giving Alliance, the charity watchdogs are supposed to accredit charities that maintain these two laws:

● 65% of total expenses are on charitable missions
● No more than 35% of any contributed amount to be used in fundraising.

Universal Giving

They are a specific organization that focuses their energy on what you want to donate. As so, they have a platform that will rank charities on their patriot act compliance or status verification on finance and management status.

They are the perfect place to source out the best children’s charities, among other charities. You can volunteer a specific amount to a particular place or continent of your choice.

Bright Funds

Bright funds is an investment organization fund that provides an easy and simplified way of donating. They create a portfolio that will divide your donations according to the causes you set up. They ensure the charities you will be donating to are the most effective and the most needed of help.

They work under these six target areas:

● Poverty
● Health
● Water
● Education
● Human rights
● Environment

From a single platform, you can donate to the above six areas. Plus, if you want to volunteer to an organization that isn’t part of their pre-built funds base, you can always add it by registering.

2. Avoid Telemarketers

It’s rare to find a charity organization rooting for themselves so that people can fundraise or volunteer or donate. Donations are a personal decision which under no circumstance should one feel they are in duress to offer.

If you receive calls, texts, or any marketing information from a charity organization, you are probably dealing with a scammer. As so, don’t let anyone advise you on how or when you should donate.

Keep a third eye open for any solicitors who may offer you vague or fictitious information to persuade you to donate. Claims that don’t explain where your donations shall be used.

3. Evaluate Facts About the Charity Organization

Before you go charity planning, take a deep dive into the charity of your choice and source out information regarding their business model. In this case, their nonprofit organization model.

Look through their mission, vision, goals, and achievements. Compare it to other charities under the same category to see through its finances. The operating costs should lie under the same bracket.

Seek answers to any queries you may have about the organization. If they’re hesitant to give you the information, there are doubts about their credibility.

4. Follow Your Gut

Your instincts play a huge role; if you feel inclined to or uncomfortable with the idea, then you are probably right. Avoid making donations if you are openly unwilling to do so. Chances are, the organizations you see fault in are not reputable charities.

5. Other Miscellaneous Tips

Besides the obvious points above, there are other tiny details that can offset your intentions to donate. They include:

● Never give out your personal information regarding credit, or debit card numbers, bank accounts or others.
● Don’t believe the name only, always dig deep into the company. Most scammers will use similar names to legitimate charities to entice and convince donors.
● Don’t rely only on internet information. Hacking and cyber security can compromise the net at times.
● Look the organization through the Internal Revenue Service website. Legitimate nonprofit organizations will have good records.
● Be cautious of a new organization. Not to say they may not be legit. Actually, they may need the most financial boosting than other large organizations, but they can also be a scam.

Make a Difference with the Right Charity Organization

When you make your donations, you always hope that it will make a difference, whether big or small. That’s why you need to know these reputable charities so that you can be part of something bigger than yourself.

Connect with us and let us guide you through your charitable planning.