Top 4 questions to ask when choosing a charity organization

Everyone wants to have a measurable impact in the lives of those who are less fortunate. You feel the compulsion to get involved - to put action to your heart. But with so many charity organizations available and so many people in desperate need, where do you even begin?

As you familiarize yourself with various charity organizations, information overload can quickly ambush your good intentions. Plus, with the prevalence of scams, scepticism is only natural - and very necessary. But none of this should hinder your goodwill. While there is only so much you can do, that ‘so much’ amounts to so much.

Keep your heart and passion alive - and use these 5 questions to help you discern which charity you should support.

Question #1: Which charitable need is your passion?

Don’t underestimate the power of emotion. Charity organizations are numerous, ranging from environmental to humanitarian. Whether it be children or adults, our heartstrings are pulled toward the vulnerable and disempowered of our world. Ask yourself: which charity’s vision moves you the most? Whether it is uplifting street children or empowering women, your passion will help you narrow down your focus.

Question #2: Which charity organizations do I know?

Once you know your general direction, start doing your research. Begin with the charity organizations that you know, the ones on your radar. It could be one that is actively campaigning at your child’s school, one that your friends donate to on a monthly basis, or an established organization that you’re familiar with. Recommendations and word of mouth are always a good sign. Even if you don’t settle on the trusted ones you know, they will serve as a barometer, helping you to measure and compare other charity organizations.

Question #3: Where exactly is the money going?

A simple claim to “support children” is very vague. Determine exactly where the money is going. Are they transparent about what they will be doing with the money and how it will impact the lives of children? How will it reach their needs and what difference will it make? Do they disclose the impact they have made in the past, as well as the details of future projects? The action charity organizations make should match their mission with measurable impact.
(A side note: The privacy and anonymity required by some charities and their recipients might need to be respected.)

Question #4: What is their ‘bedside manner’?

Sometimes the obvious needs to be stated. Just as you get a gut feeling about a doctor’s bedside manner, your gut instinct also matters when it comes to charity organizations. How do they respond to queries? Are they cagey with their information, or do they simply want to grab your money? Alarm bells should ring if they pressure, guilt, or harass you into giving money. You are under no obligations! 

For a charity organization that ticks all these boxes, read why UNICEF is one of the best charities in South Africa.

We are more than a charity for children. Our mission is for every child.

Children are our passion and we’d love to share that journey with you, so connect with us on Facebook and Instagram