Donor Resources: Making Informed Giving Decisions

Performing due diligence and researching charitable organizations before donating is a crucial step for donors wishing to make impactful gifts of personal assets. Below are valuable resources for exploring foundations, news, research, and statistics to guide your philanthropic decisions.

Foundations

  • Council on Foundations
    A professional association for community, corporate, family, and private foundations across North America. While not all foundations belong to this association, many list their organizations here.
  • Foundation Center
    Maintains an extensive database of foundations across the United States. This resource includes a comprehensive search engine, though some services require a fee.
  • GuideStar
    A trusted source for data on nonprofits. With free registration, donors can access an organization’s Form 990. Additional features, including an online newsletter subscription, are available for a fee.
  • National Center for Family Philanthropy
    Provides a wide range of donor publications tailored to families engaged in charitable giving.

News, Research, and Statistics

  • Keeping Wealth in Montana
    A study commissioned by the Montana Community Foundation that explores the transfer of wealth within Montana and its implications for philanthropy.
  • Chronicle of Philanthropy
    The leading newspaper of the nonprofit sector, published biweekly. It covers critical issues in philanthropy and offers a searchable database on its website.
  • GOOD Magazine
    A publication aimed at fostering meaningful dialogue around topics that matter, with a mission to “stimulate the culture of good.”
  • National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy
    Advocates for a more just and equitable society by promoting philanthropic accountability and responsiveness to underserved communities and critical public needs.

Use these resources to make well-informed decisions and maximize the impact of your giving.