Not all organizations giving out soup, blankets or food are doing so because they care about hungry people. Some charities use the money they donate to fund their interests.

If you wish to vet an organization, here are some ways to make sure you are giving money to the right charity.

 

Look at Their History

You can find out the charity’s history on their website. If they have been around for a long time, there is a good chance that they have been around for a reason. Also, look them up. Search Google for past scandals involving the organization or contact your city hall or state department of charities.

 

Check Out Their Online Presence

One way to help you decide whether or not to give money to a charity is by checking out their online presence. Look them up on the Internet and see if they have a nice website, a decent-looking logo, and a bunch of photos of people in need they are trying to help. Also, check out their social media presence on Instagram and Twitter. If the charity is active on social media, interact with them and ask how you can help their cause.

 

Talk to Other Donors and Volunteers

Another way to make sure you are giving to a worthy cause is by talking to other people who have been there. Ask them what they thought about the organization and how much they loved the experience. One thing I have found is that a lot of organizations will come across as shady if you ask them a couple of questions in person.

 

See How Transparent They Are

Make sure the charity is transparent about their costs and how they distribute the money. This will make it easier for you to vet them and know whether or not they are doing what they say. You can find out how much of your money will be used to help others by calling the organization directly.

 

Request An Independent Audit Report

Another thing you can do is ask for an independent audit. You can find out how much of your money is being given to the charity versus how much is being used on the administrative side by requesting an independent audit report.

 

This may sound like a lot of work, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Especially if you are giving donations to help the homeless, hungry, or ill.