For companies today, philanthropy has become widely popular. It is easier than ever for a business to donate their time, money, and resources to help local charities and events.
However, when it comes down to your donation, you want to make sure they are a worthy cause. Not all non-profit organizations are run effectively, and before you vet the cause, you’ll want the details.
What is Their Track Record?
Looking at the history of the non-profit can give you a good indication of whether they will be a worthy cause. Knowing the history of the organization, which other companies donate to the cause, and their overall public reputation speaks volumes.
Word of mouth goes a long way. What do companies they have worked with in the past have to say? There may be no better way to gauge your decision than to discuss it with previous donors or volunteers. If they are in good standing with those they are involved with and have proven themselves, they may be worth your time.
Do Your Research
Non-profits will state how much per donation goes directly toward their cause. To check their validity, you can use GuideStar. You can view their public financial statements. Form 990 will give a breakdown of money going in and out. It can explain the funding as well as explain precisely what the non-profit does. Additionally, you can look into how beneficiaries feel about the organization.
Also, when looking at the mission they spread, are they following through? You can look at their social media presence to see how they present themselves. You can also look to see where they are vesting their resources to serve the community in their area better.
Social media platforms, organization reviews, and published articles about them can be helpful. It can help you to filter the organizations you are interested in and find the one that you feel will benefit the most from your contribution.
Find Out Firsthand
In addition to online research, you can look for ways to become involved with charities that aren’t so time-consuming. There is no better way to validate an organization’s transparency and authenticity than experiencing it for yourself.
If you utilize your research, you are sure to find an organization you will feel empowered supporting.
