The beautiful thing about nonprofit organizations is that there is one for everyone - if you have a vested interest in one particular cause, it is likely that someone else is interested in the same thing. Whether it is saving the rain forest, promoting human rights, or providing shoes for children in a third-world nation, any cause is a good cause. It is the season of giving, and every time this year I try to donate a little money to a charity of my choice. I encourage you to do the same - however, be mindful of what organization you choose to give your money to. Not every nonprofit is equal. Charities like Kids Wish Network and Goodwill are not the positive fronts they put out - most of the money raised does not even go to their cause but rather to someone's pocket. If you decide to donate, consider one of the following high-rated charities.
1. Feeding America (Hunger)
This organization seeks to provide food for those in America who do not have enough to eat. They achieve this by setting up member food banks in different cities. By donating nonperishable food items to your local food bank, you are providing direct relief to a hungry American. The statistics are startling - 1 in 6 Louisianans struggles with hunger.
2. American Humane Association (Animal Welfare)
The goal of the American Humane Association is to promote animal wellness. They provide protection for farm animals as well as actor animals. They also perform research on the interaction between humans and animals. They are doing amazing things with their work. See their effectiveness report for more information.
3. Cancer Research Institute (Health)
Not only does 87 cents of every dollar goes directly to their programs, all breakthroughs in the cancer field can be traced back to scientists funded by the Cancer Research Institute. Check out all of their amazing accomplishments. It is because of donor support that they are able to provide the most groundbreaking medical treatments for cancer patients.
4. Marine Corps Toys for Tots (Children)
The Toys for Tots organization collects new, unwrapped toys during October, November, and December to distribute them to needy kids in the community for Christmas. It is another case of directing helping our local communities - instead of sending off money somewhere, you can buy toys that will go into the hands of a loving child. An excellent way of investing in our nation's children!
5. Sierra Club Foundation (Environment)
The Sierra Club Foundation, according to their mission statement, is "dramatically increasing its commitment to a clean energy future by doubling down on efforts to move beyond fossil fuels while maintaining our long-standing commitment to protecting wild lands, getting more people from every background outdoors, and working to achieve environmental justice by broadening the reach and diversity of the environmental movement." If taking care of our planet is your cause, this is an organization for you!
6. Habitat For Humanity International (Housing)
Working with churches and community groups, Habitat has provided housing for 6.8 million low-income people. I have personally volunteered with this organization before - I had the honor of helping to raise the walls - so I encourage you to help build a house. Donating is the next best thing.
7. Water.org (International Relief)
Did you know that 1 in 10 people do not have access to safe drinking water? 1 in 3 people do not have access to a toilet. Water.org seeks to provide safe drinking water for all, sanitation education and economic progress. Every $1 donated provides a $4 economic return - providing clean water allows those in impoverished nations, especially women, to take less time searching for water and more time working.
8. The Trevor Project (LGBTQ Advocacy)
The Trevor Project works to provide crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual youth. They have trained counselors available 24/7. If you know someone who is feeling suicidal, implore them to call the Trevor Lifeline at 866-488-7386. How else can you help? Volunteer with the Trevor Project or donate.
9. Reading Is Fundamental (Literacy)
Reading Is Fundamental gives books to children in need. Only 1 in 3 American children has books in their home, meaning that more than 10 million do not have books. Reading at a young age improves vocabulary and reading comprehension, leading to success in later education. Check out Reading Is Fundamental's impact stories to see how they have enriched the lives of children.
10. Women For Women International (Women's Rights)
This organization seeks to empower marginalized women both economically and socially. Their programs provide women with opportunities to build support networks, share experiences, learn vocational skills, and access resources. Women are able to learn basic business skills so that they improve earning potential, and they learn the importance of voting and other fundamental rights. Give back by sponsoring a sister, buying gifts that give back or donating.
