We rely on charitable organizations to provide a host of services to our families, friends, and neighbors when they're sick or hungry, when they want to learn something new, or when they just need a spiritual or artistic lift. Those organizations rely on our contributions to ensure those services are there when we need them -- but how can we make sure our contributions will really make a difference?

Tips for Protecting Yourself and Your Investment in Charities: Eight simple steps you can take to make sure your dollars will be going to an organization you know and believe in.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Charitable Contributions: Develop a plan for giving so that you―and the charities you choose to support―can make the most of your investment.

Ten Tips for Wise Volunteering (PDF): Discover how you can make an invaluable contribution of time and reap immeasurable rewards for yourself!

Find out how Nonprofit Organizations are Strengthening Accountability: Are you concerned about stories you've heard about management problems at nonprofit organizations? Leaders in the nonprofit field share your concerns.