How to Choose the Right Charity to Support

These days, most of us don't have a lot of spare money once the bills are paid. This means that choosing which of the many worthy charities will receive a portion of our surplus income can sometimes be a confusing task. In order to make sure your hard-earned money is being used to best effect, it is important to take some time and ask a few questions about any organization that could use your help.

Does This Charity Address a Need I Feel is Important?

With only so much money to give, it is important to choose charities that are dedicated to providing some type of aid or support that you strikes you as being vital. At times, that choice hits close to home. For example, a dog lover who once rescued a beloved pet from an abusive situation may want to support a local animal shelter, while a cancer survivor may prefer to donate to a charity that supports cancer research. Decide what matters to you most and focus on charities that address those issues.

Exactly What Does This Charity Do For The Cause?

Find out what type of programs a charity funds before sending any money. Ideally, you will find that several different programs are active, ranging from research to patient care for disease related charities, to the prevention of abuse and the placement of household pets for an animal shelter. This will allow you to further narrow the scope of options and come closer to zeroing in on a charity that you can support whole-heartedly.

Does This Charity Manage Money Well?

While every charitable organization has administrative expenses and must pay full-time staff, it can be a bit disconcerting to find that a huge chunk of the donations collected are going for salaries and to pay for a high profile office address. Find out what percentage of collected revenue goes for expenses other than direct support of the cause that is close to your heart. Ideally, focus your attention on charities that keep administrative and related expenses under 15% of the total collected.

Keep in mind that local charities can use your time as well as your money. When and as possible, find ways to help out at a local food bank or charity thrifty shop, be a server in a soup line, or volunteer to help with a reading program. Many houses of worship as well as private charities participate in ecumenical community programs that help with everything from paying a late power bill to teaching people how to get back on their feet after a severe financial setback. Even if you don't have a lot of money, there is still plenty you can do to help the world be a little better for those less fortunate.