How do I research a charitable organization?

Answered By: Reference Staff

Last Updated: Jun 01, 2021 Views: 123

A charity is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to benefit the general public. Charities goals are philanthropic and aim to improve the quality of life of the community.

The first step to research a charity is to go to the organization's website. In most cases, their website should provide: the mission, vision, and values, and will often include information about the executives, board (and board size), and other leaders of the organization.

Sometimes, not always, you may find financial and key employment statistics in the form of an annual report. Look in all tabs and areas at the top and the bottom of an organizations's website!
(Adapted from: Rasmussen College Library)

Additional websites beyond the organizations:

GuideStar
- Provides information such as the organization’s 990 form, annual reports, and balance sheets.
- Sign up with a free membership.
- Check out the company’s 990 form for information about the number of employees and volunteers, total revenue, total assets and expenses, and much more!
- Search for charities and non-profit organizations as well.
Foundation Directory Online:
National Center for Charitable Statistics
- (NCCS) Search for information on public charities, foundations and more.
Tax Information for Charities and Non-Profits
- From the IRS.gov website
- Search for charities

Walker Library databases can often provide articles about the charitable organization you're researching including newspaper, magazine, and journal articles.

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