Giving to charity is a huge boon for society, and can be a huge personal boost, as well. Charitable organizations help out in many facets of life and the world around us. There are a variety of different types of charitable organizations, and it can be difficult to determine which ones are going to use your money in the most helpful way possible.
It is important to focus on how the charitable organization uses its profits, and what kinds of programs are supported and presented, as well as how well those programs are followed through. Whether you’re looking to support a more grassroots movement by supporting local charities and want to give online to churches, or your focus is on a more global scale, here are four humanitarian charities worth looking into.
The American Humane Society
The American Humane Society is an animal-focused charity organization that has been around for more than 100 years. With the mission of ensuring the well-being of animals and improving bonds between humans and animals, this charity ranks high up on the list for reputable charities that do what they say they are going to do with your money. The American Humane Society has led major efforts such as improving the treatment of animals used in movies and shows, and quick response care teams for animals in the event of natural disasters.
With this charity you can rest assured that your donation will be used wisely; over 80% of American Humane Society’s income goes towards animal welfare projects. Whether it is through community action, relief from wildfires, or rescue teams during a hurricane, The American Humane Society is always looking out for our precious animals and wildlife.
Relief International
Relief International is a humanitarian non-profit that has been in operation for 80 years providing communities in fragile settings the opportunities to live a healthier and happier life. Operating in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and the Caribbean, Relief International works with programs that provide health and nutrition, clean water, economic opportunities, and education to communities that would not otherwise have clear access to those resources.
Relief International takes this one step further, by ensuring that these communities have the tools and skills they need to keep these benefits going for the long run. This charity is also rated very highly as a charitable organization, with over 80% of its profits going directly to its humanitarian programs. Relief International also focuses on boosting local economies and encouraging entrepreneurship for individuals and families to be able to help support themselves.
Save The Children
This organization has one goal: to end child suffering. Save The Children has been around for over 100 years with a primary focus on keeping children safe, healthy, and educated. Working in both the U.S. and over 100 countries worldwide, Save The Children is very upfront about their finances, with the front page of their website breaking down how your donated dollars are spent.
Over 85% of their income is used for programs focused on children. In one year this organization helped support over 197 million children with proper nutrition, proper education, and a life free from violence. One main focus for Save The Children is educating women and girls and protecting them from human trafficking situations, in which 27% of the victims are children.
Doctors Without Borders
Doctors Without Borders has been providing neutral and impartial medical aid wherever it is needed since 1971. With ongoing medical projects happening in over 70 countries around the world, this humanitarian organization responds to areas that have suffered from such things as natural disasters, political conflicts, and disease outbreaks. Over 85% of their profits go towards medical programs that provide medical aid for anyone in need while urging governments to create policies that will enable medical care in communities that may not normally have access.
Doctors Without Borders also helps to provide vaccinations, family planning services, access to otherwise unavailable medications, and even sends surgery teams to underprivileged areas, among many other medically-related programs. Without their help, unfortunately, many of these individuals would not otherwise get the care they so deserve and need.
While not everyone may be able to support a humanitarian organization, donating to a reputable non-profit organization can not only help the world around us but also give a great feeling of doing something good for the beings and the environment around us. If you aren’t able to donate, charitable organizations are usually looking for volunteers to help out with a number of things. Whether you give money or give time, giving back to your fellow humans, animals, and the environment is important for everyone.