Your philanthropy is a reflection of your personal values and reinforces your goals and priorities for the wider community. To ensure your donations are making the most impact, it’s helpful to become familiar with causes before making a gift.
Evaluating organizations can provide you with inspiring insights as well as practical information. GuideStar and Charity Navigator are two national search engines that guide donors in their review of nonprofits.
Once you have narrowed your search, the author of “Debating Effective Philanthropy” and public administration professor David Campbell advises donors to consider an organization’s performance, its stakeholders’ experience, and how it is addressing community issues.
But how does one research such information?
There are many vehicles to access information about a nonprofit. With over 40 years of community knowledge and nonprofit partnerships, The San Diego Foundation is a great resource.
In today’s digital age, you can also visit an organization’s website, read through the digital 990 form, “Like” its Facebook page, and/or “Follow” its Twitter account, for example.
Below are questions and content to consider as you monitor electronic information channels.
[Tweet “Learn about what you should look for when evaluating nonprofits from Keely Bamberg #SDFNews”]
Occasionally, you might find it valuable to experience a specific program in person, tour a new facility or meet with program staff before a giving decision. The Foundation can facilitate setting up a meeting or site visit on your behalf.
Below are some key concepts to consider during personal visits with nonprofit representatives.
Nonprofit organizations are deeply passionate and committed to their work. They put in very long hours to bring much-needed services and programs to our community.
When you feel confident that the programs, operations and leadership of a particular cause are worthy of your philanthropic support, give freely. The organization then has a responsibility to deploy your generosity wisely, and report back how the gift made a difference.
If the organization meets or exceeds your expectations with its positive community impact, be sure to give again – and spread the word!
Please contact The San Diego Foundation to learn more about how we can help you refine your giving priorities for more focused philanthropy and increased community impact.
On August 9, 2022, we awarded $838,704 in Opening the Outdoors grants to 24 nonprofit organizations that offer equitable access to outdoor spaces in San Diego County.
“San Diego Foundation is proud to once again support its partners committed to increasing community-driven efforts to enhance accessible outdoor space, encourage youth to learn more through hands-on education and create the next generation of environmental stewards in the San Diego region,” said Christiana DeBenedict, SDF Director of Environment Initiatives.
This year’s grantees will help address these inequities and enhance access to the outdoors throughout San Diego County.
"*" indicates required fields
The Advisor monthly e-newsletter provides philanthropy news and trends and financial planning strategies for advisors and their clients.
"*" indicates required fields
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Children and Families programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to support stronger families in our region.
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Education programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to support enhanced learning experiences and increased access to college for San Diego students.
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Environment and Climate programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to support equitable outdoor access and climate change resiliency.
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Racial and Social Justice programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to learn about creating equitable opportunities for all and how to support our multicultural region and its diverse population.
"*" indicates required fields
This helpful resource provides you with information about corporate philanthropy and custom corporate giving solutions for your business.
"*" indicates required fields
This helpful resource will show you how you can leave a legacy to your family, your charity or your community that complements your will and trust(s).
"*" indicates required fields