How I did it: I listed down a whole bunch of things I feel passionate about: cancer research, saving the dolphins, saving the environment, and rehabilitating our soldiers, just to name a few. 
I went on charitynavigator.org, a website that rates each non-profit charity on two axes: accountability and transparency, and a financial score. 
They also list what percentage of funds go to the actual cause, as well as program expenses, and administrative expenses.  Some charities also state how much the CEO makes!  Another helpful facet I found were reviews from people who had direct interactions with the charities themselves. 
Combining that info with other website and news info, I was able to narrow down my choices to a few key charities.

Lessons & tips: Do your homework! 
When you donate, cross reference the website to see where your money is going.  You may be surprised! 
Also, don't be afraid to support a non-profit that nobody has ever heard of.  They probably just use less of that collected money towards advertising!

Resources: charitynavigator.org

Jul 10, 2012, 06:49PM PDT | 2 comments | 15 cheers