Finding the right charity to support can be overwhelming, but with a little introspection and research, you can make a truly impactful contribution that aligns with your passions and values. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the process.

 

Understanding Your Values and Causes

Start with introspection. What issues are close to your heart? What experiences have shaped your values? What makes you feel angry? What gets you out of bed in the morning?

What activities do you lose track of time doing? What are you curious about? What would you do if you had unlimited time or resources? There are virtually no right or wrong answers.

Consider causes like environmental protection, animal welfare, education, poverty alleviation, healthcare, and human rights. The list of causes goes on.

 

A Search Guide to the Charity Landscape

When hunting for that one charity, or a handful to support, there are a few things to consider.

First up, choose a reputable platform to search with. A great tool for finding New Zealand charities is the Charities Register, Te Rēhita Kaupapa Atawhai.

Per the Charities Services website, “All registered charities in New Zealand appear on the Charities Register. The Register summarises each charity’s purposes, activities, and sector and includes their annual return – a yearly report which details their income, expenditure and activities.

“The Charities Register is a database of charities registered under the Charities Act 2005. The Register helps the public, funders and other users to make better-informed decisions about charities they may wish to support financially, volunteer for, or whose services they may wish to use.” Visit the Register here, and explore the site while you’re at it: https://www.charities.govt.nz/charities-in-new-zealand/the-charities-register/

 

Choosing A Charity

Don’t settle for the first charity you find. Compare charities until you find the right one for you. Compare mission statements, programs, and fundraising strategies to see which resonates most with you.

Also, read testimonials, reviews, news, and websites! See what others have to say about the charity’s effectiveness and how your contribution will be used.

It’s a good idea to prioritise your criteria. Consider these aspects, some of which you mightn’t care about, others of which might be the main focus of your charity hunt.

 

Effectiveness

Choose charities with a proven track record of achieving their goals and making a tangible difference in their chosen field.

Financial efficiency

Look for organisations that allocate a high percentage of their donations directly to programs, not administrative costs.

Transparency and accountability

Choose charities that openly share their financial information and impact evaluations.

Alignment with your values

Ensure the charity’s mission and methods align with your personal ethics and beliefs.

 

How to Ensure Your Support Makes a Difference

Making a one-time donation is a great start, but there are even more ways to truly make a difference! Consider volunteering your time and skills to directly contribute to the cause. Contact the charity to explore opportunities aligned with your strengths and interests. Spreading awareness is another powerful tool. Talk to friends and family, share the charity’s website and social media, and participate in events to amplify their message. And for sustained impact, become a regular supporter. Setting up recurring donations lets the charity plan for the future and achieve more.

Beyond classic methods, explore alternative forms of support. Donate items the charity needs, offer pro bono services, or even organise your own fundraising event. And remember, your engagement doesn’t end with your contribution. Stay informed by following the charity’s updates, ask questions to understand their impact, and hold them accountable for transparency.

Giving is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, explore different causes, find the best fit for your values, and celebrate every positive change you help create. Every effort, big or small, contributes to a world where your chosen cause can truly thrive. Feel free to ask me anything about finding the perfect charity, volunteer opportunities, or even advocating for your chosen cause!