According to Jordan Sidoo Donating to charity is a great way to give back, but with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. How do you choose a charity that aligns with your personal values? And once you’ve found a few organizations you like, how do you decide which one deserves your donation?
What is the Organization’s Mission?
The first step in choosing a charity is ensuring that its mission statement aligns with your personal values. What issues are you most passionate about? If you care deeply about animal rights, for example, you might want to donate to an organization that rescues animals from abuse or provides resources for low-income pet owners.
Who Does the Organization Serve?
Not all charities are created equal. Some focus on providing direct services to those in need, while others advocate for systemic change or invest in research and education. There are pros and cons to both approaches, so think about what kind of impact you want your donation to have. Do you want to see results right away, or are you okay with supporting a longer-term effort?
How Much of My Donation Will Actually Go Towards the Cause?
Jordan Sidoo It’s important to find out how much of your donation will go towards the actual cause vs. overhead costs like administration and fundraising. A good rule of thumb is that 85% or more of your donation should be going toward the cause itself.
What Results Has the Organization Achieved?
No matter how well-intentioned an organization is, it won’t be effective if it doesn’t have a good track record of actually achieving its goals. Before donating, look at the organization’s website and see if they list any specific accomplishments or success stories.
In the end,
Donating to charity is a great way to help make the world a better place—but with so many options out there, it can be tough knowing where to start. By asking yourself these four questions before giving back, you can ensure that your donation goes towards an organization that aligns with your personal values and is effective at creating positive change.