| Researching Nonprofits |
| From the Life@Work Journal, Jan/ Feb 2001 |
One of the toughest decisions for leaders of nonprofit organizations is figuring out what not to do. "The world is full of good causes," management guru Peter Drucker said last year, "and in nonprofits it is very difficult to say no and be able to defend that to your board, volunteers, and staff."
If it's hard for the nonprofits to prioritize their opportunities, imagine how difficult it is for the organizations and individuals that give to charities.
There are several organizations whose stated mission is to help people make informed choices regarding their gifts. In addition to providing good information and tips, The Chronicle of Philanthropy's Website (www.philanthropy.com) has a comprehensive list of organizations. Follow the "ideas and resources" link.
The information most organizations provide about charities is helpful, but only a few sites go a step further and rate nonprofits. The best known watchdogs for nonprofits, the American Insitute for Philanthropy (www.charitywatch.org) and the Philanthropic Advisory Service (www.bbb.org/about.pas.asp), planned to merge at the start of 2001.
Wall Watchers, a nonprofit organization in Matthews, NC, now operates a site that uses a Biblical filter when evaluating nonprofits. Wall Watchers operates www.MinistryWatch.com.
"MinistryWatch is an online database of information on church and parachurch ministries from which ministry profiles and ratings are generated," according to the site. "It also provides an Education Center where you can learn more about responsible giving."
In addition to information on stewardship and articles that focus on giving, the site allows donors to search a database of more than 400 charities and view organizational background, as well as financial information and efficiency ratios. By January 2001, the site was expected to have its "MinistryWatch Five Star Ratings" in place, as well as a brief analysis comment for each ministry and a "ministry response". Wall Watchers also has plans to launch another site that will focus on non-ministry charities.
Used with permission, The Life@Work JournalTM, The Life@Work Co.©
This article can also be found at www.lifeatwork.com
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