Public Priorities on Charity Accountability

On Monday, July 1^st, BBB Wise Giving Alliance released the Give.org Special Donor Trust Report on Charity Accountability, exploring public positions and expectations related to a selection of charity accountability themes, including charity oversight, finances, impact, solicitation materials, artificial intelligence, and data security. Those interested in a quick read might appreciate the coverage by The Chronicle of Philanthropy or The NonProfit Times.

When asked to consider the importance of assessing 7 different accountability elements, survey participants said they would most value: an independent review of how the charity spends its money (76%); whether the charity’s appeals are truthful, accurate, and not misleading (73%); and whether the charity adequately protects donor information (61%). Truthful communications and adequate data protection were more frequently chosen as “very important” than aspects like measurement and communication of charity achievements (57%) and adequate board oversight over staff and operations (55%). In an age of distrust, misinformation, and data vulnerability, our survey shows that truthful and accurate communication, and adequate protection of donor information, have become top public priorities. For more, please visit the Donor Trust Report.

Given that individual donors make up the bulk of charitable contributions in the United States, and that public engagement with charities has been in decline, public voices on charity trust are as important as ever. This 4^th of July is a good opportunity to reflect on how charities offer each of us a way to make a difference.

Heart of Giving Podcast

This week’s Heart of Giving Podcast features Leah Henck, President, Freedom Firm USA. After she completed her MBA from Regent University, she joined her husband, an attorney, in India. Together they spent the next seven years serving with Freedom Firm to end child sex trafficking in India. Upon returning to the U.S., Leah continued to support these anti-trafficking efforts as Freedom Firm USA’s President.

Recent Reports

We are always working with charities to publish or update reports for donors. Visit Give.org or local BBBs to check out any charity before giving. Our recently evaluated charities include:

• Compassion & Choices
• Outreach Aid to the Americas
• Our Daily Bread Ministries

Finally, remember to let us know by going to give.org/charity-inquiry if you are interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.