How do you decide where you donate? And whom to donate to?
Are passion, belief and identification with a cause the most important aspects of how you give?
Here are some of our tips for donors:
- Check a charity's commitment to accountability and transparency: This is critical because, according to CharityNavigator.org, charities that follow good governance and transparency practices are less likely to engage in unethical or irresponsible activities.
- Obtain copies of its financial records: Realistically, most people don't do this. But often, charities which spend a lot on administrative fees, or have seen income plummet and expense surge, or have a low amount of saving, point to a lack of sustainability.
- Make a long-term commitment: If a charity deserves your support, it deserves your support and trust over a long period of time.
- Be proactive: Don't donate to the first organisation that asks you for money. Do a little research – there are lots of good causes.
Useful Links
Giving Tuesday - The simple idea behind #GivingTuesday is to encourage people, charities and businesses to donate time. It has grown into a global movement, covering countries like the US, Australia, Singapore, Canada, much of Latin America and Israel.
Small Charities Coalition - Volunteer to support trustees and staff or simply volunteer for small charities. You could mentor, advise and guide the charity in a specific area of their work e.g. business planning, finance or HR.
Young Philanthropy - Young Philanthropy's mission is to educate and empower a new generation of philanthropists to take a leading role in transforming society. It enables young professionals to join together and invest their time, money and skills in niche charity projects.
City Philanthropy - A three-year initiative (2013-15) funded by the City of London Corporation's charity City Bridge Trust (CBT). It comprises a number of constituent elements funded by CBT to achieve a two-fold mission: to embed a culture of effective philanthropy in the City of London (and Canary Wharf), particularly among a younger generation of professionals; and to promote London as a global centre for effective philanthropy.