The Best Charities to Donate to

Giving to charity has always been a part of your financial plan. You want to make the world a better place, and you make sure you take a part of your earnings and donate it to a good cause.

But, there is a new charity organization knocking at your door every day. Pictures of children, animals, and the ill are everywhere in print and online. So many worthy causes! And, so many scams!

Where are the best charities to donate to located? How do you know a given charity is legitimate, sound, and in need?

Read on to discover the 5 best charities to donate your money to today.

1. International Relief: Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities is part of Caritas Internationalis, an alliance of over 165 global aid groups. Catholic Charities is often one of the first to respond to disaster situations.

The 3 largest charity watchdog organizations give Catholic Charities high ratings. Over 80 percent of their revenue is dedicated to programs, not administration.

2. Disease Treatment: The National Brain Appeal

The National Brain Appeal raises monies for The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.

Based in London, England, the National Hospital is a leader known worldwide in the field of neurology and brain disease.

According to its charity news site, the National Brain Appeal works in many creative ways to earn monies. JustGiving.com rates this charity very high.

3. Best Charity to Donate Clothes: American Red Cross

You can donate clean, gently-used clothing and shoes to any local church, or social agency in your area. But, if you want to make a clothing donation to a national organization, the American Red Cross is an A-1 option.

The American Red Cross is one of the most well-respected charity organizations in the U.S since it’s beginning in 1881.

The American Red Cross accepts clothing gifts via a partnership with GreenDrop, which will arrange to pick up clothing from your home.

4. Best Animal Charity: WildAid

As an alternative to your local humane society, consider the international organization WildAid.

WildAid’s mission is to reduce the global consumption of wildlife products. This consumption has led to years of illegal poaching, and needless slaughter. WildAid also works to protect marine life, and reduce the impact of climate change.

WildAid is one of the few animal rights charities that hold a perfect score from watchdog, Charity Navigator.

5. Children’s Health Charity: The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation

The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation funds children’s cancer research. Their goal is to cure pediatric cancer for good.

In 2005, the Foundation established The Sunshine Project. This effort helps doctors and researchers fast-track new treatments for childhood cancer.

This charity has a perfect rating from Charity Navigator and is named a top charity by Consumer Reports as well.