At TCF, one of our goals is to empower you as a donor. Below are some tools to help you evaluate nonprofit organizations and research the organizations that best fit your giving goals. You can also contact us with questions or a request for customized research.
- Educate yourself about the differences in financial reporting and governance of small and large charities. Here’s a helpful CharityWatch article about these differences and what you might want to look for or ask about.
- Review an organization’s tax return (Form 990) or financials on Candid. Learn valuable tips on effectively evaluating nonprofits through this article from Forbes magazine.
- Compare nonprofits or learn more about their internal workings with Charity Navigator.
- Consult the IRS for nonprofit addresses and up to date standings using the IRS Charity Database.
- Virginia-based nonprofits are required to register with the state in order to solicit donations. Access Virginia’s charitable solicitation information and database.
- Here are three resources to help you explore area nonprofits and service providers: 211VA provides a comprehensive directory of nonprofit resources in the state. Check out our annual Giving Back Guide or log onto the Great Community Give site for a searchable directory (available most months of the year, except while it’s being updated for the next event).