Top charities

Sarah L. Stewart
May 7, 2008

If philanthropy is a priority for you, it’s important to know your money is going where you intend. The American Institute of Philanthropy grades many different charities based on how much of their money goes to program costs and how much goes to fundraising and other administrative duties. After all, it’s a lot more inspiring to envision your donation feeding children in Africa or saving a kitten’s life than financing a telemarketer.

Here are just a few of the many charities the institute has given high marks. For a list of others, visit www.charitywatch.org/toprated.html.

American Humane Association
www.americanhumane.org

Grade: A-

Dating back to 1877, American Humane works to prevent neglect and abuse of children and animals.

AIDS Research Alliance
www.aidsresearch.org

Grade: A

This California-based charity is devoted to improving the lives of people with HIV/AIDS as well as developing vaccines, treatment and a cure for the disease.

Fisher House Foundation
www.fisherhouse.org

Grade: A+

This program offers free housing to the families of members of the military who are hospitalized at major military or VA

The Conservation Fund
www.conservationfund.org

Grade: A+

More than 6 million acres nationwide — including wildlife habitat, working farms and historic sites — have been preserved by The Conservation Fund since it was founded in 1985.

Action Against Hunger-USA
www.actionagainsthunger.org

Grade: A+

This organization strives to end hunger by preventing, identifying and treating malnutrition worldwide, particularly in areas affected by war or natural disasters.

Cancer Research Institute
www.cancerresearch.org

Grade: A

This institute is dedicated to supporting coordinated scientific and clinical efforts to diagnose, treat and prevent cancer with immune-based strategies.