In Support of America’s Charitable Sector

The credibility of the charitable sector is being questioned. As the nation's largest donor advocate and independent evaluator of charities, we have studied the financials, the governance structures, and the impact of hundreds of thousands of organizations. The evidence is clear: The US charitable sector is trustworthy and effective. 

 

Since our nation’s founding, charities have been integral to the fabric of American life, providing vital services and support that government and businesses do not. Across the country, charities take many forms — from hospitals and food pantries to after-school programs, environmental groups, and places of worship. Regardless of race, religion, politics, or economic status, Americans give generously of their time and dollars. 

 

Charity Navigator ratings and information have helped millions of donors find and support trustworthy and effective charities. The vast majority of charities operate with integrity and effectiveness.

 

What our analysts see:

• Of all the legally registered charities in our country, fewer than 0.01% receive an alert advising donors not to give or to give with extreme caution.  
• Over 150,000 of the charities we rate receive a high rating, indicating their performance is Good or Great. 

This evidence shows strength, not weakness. 

 

Americans have always united to support one another, a value rooted in our nation's founding principles. Giving is not just about generosity; it reflects our core values, compassion, and dedication to building resilient communities. The need for unity has never been more urgent — together, we must amplify our voices to defend what is a foundational element of America.

 

Charity Navigator stands by our work and the guidance we provide to all.  We believe our nation has a trustworthy and strong charitable sector. If you have additional evidence of the sector’s effectiveness, please make it known. 

 

 

Michael Thatcher

President & CEO

Charity Navigator

 

 

Donors: Please continue to stand by the causes and charities you have supported and help them keep doing the work that they do.  

 

Charities: Keep doing the work and proudly tell your impact stories. We encourage you to speak up and to advocate for your rights. Our collective voices matter. 

 

Giving Is American, and American giving is unique in the world. Strong charities keep America whole. This powerful and essential tradition must continue.