What Charity uses their money the most effectively?

Question

I have a habbit of not giving to charity because I notice that all of them spend a third to half of the money I get paying to fund raise more money. Are their any charities that spend no money fund raising or have no board of directors that get paid $100,000 a year?

Answer 1

No, most spend 85% or more on their programs and the rest on administrative costs and fundraising costs.

For American-based charities, you can see exactly where their money goes at Charity Navigator, or go right to the top ten list here:
http://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=topten.detail&listid=18

Answer 2

Look on guide star. That's where charities have to post their reports. There is always some cost for fundraising but it should be minimal. Many have board members who are volunteers. I usually look the amount that they spend on admistrative costs to make sure that most of what is received is spent on the clients.

Answer 3

Red Cross...

you hardly see any fund-raising being down by them and they help the most people

Also, check with your local church to see which ones they support.