If you are looking to donate regularly during the holiday season or in 2017, I’d urge you to check out the following organizations. If you want to evaluate the transparency and effectiveness of an organization, look for their reviews on Charity Navigator.
National Resources Defense Council
This organization focuses on conservation and protects against damage in the land, water, and air. NRDC is made up of about 2 million people and uses scientists and other experts to decide what projects to focus on.
DonorsChoose
If you’re looking for a place to help out our schools and children (in the US), I LOVE DonorsChoose. I regularly donate monthly. It lets you choose which projects to fund and helps teachers get the supplies they need for their classroom like new books, chairs, or learning equipment.
RAINN
The Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network helps spread awareness and support to sexual assault victims. One of their biggest projects is a national 24/7 hotline staffed by knowledgeable volunteers that gives victims a place to share and get help.
Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood does more than just provide abortions (in some offices). They also give free or discounted exams, spread education, and help ensure that women and men can get the health services that they need.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project’s sole purpose is to prevent suicide amongst LQBTQ youths. They offer a suicide hotline, as well as workshops in schools and community centers to educate teens and their adult teachers and caregivers the signs of suicide and how to help.
ProPublica
This organization is a national news source that provides award-winning journalism that is in the public’s interest. It is completely non-partisan and allows outlets to republish its stories with attribution. ProPublica wants to get great journalism out that isn’t slanted by personal interests or opinion.