Listing of Charitable Organizations
There is a very large number of charitable organizations that have helped people all over the world. More than 1.4 million registered nonprofit organizations have provided relief for suffering people in a wide variety of circumstances. In most countries, nonprofit organizations do not have to pay taxes and the profits earned are only meant to sustain the organization, which is one reason so many depend on volunteers to help meet the organization's goals.
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Disaster Relief
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There are many organizations that assist in disaster relief such as the Tsunami in Japan and the earthquake in Haiti. The American Red Cross was founded in 1881 by nurse Clara Barton. It is one of the most well-known charitable organizations that have helped people worldwide. The Red Cross has come to the aid of victims of natural disasters, has supported military families and are responsible for international relief programs. Due to generous donations, the Red Cross is the largest supplier of blood for those in need. The Red Cross relies on donations only, as it is not an government agency. There are over half a million people who volunteer for the Red Cross.
The Salvation Army started in 1865 and helps more than 30 million people each year with the different services it provides. It has many thrift stores set up throughout the country for anyone who wants to donate and gladly accepts donations of all kinds including cars, clothing and household items. The Salvation Army welcomes volunteers.
Homeless
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Covenant House was started 38 years ago as an organization for homeless kids, and it has helped many kids on the street since the beginning. Runaways, unwanted kids and others are offered food, shelter and crisis care. There are locations throughout the United States, Canada and Central America. Covenant House also offers education programs, job training and drug abuse treatment. The organization is appreciative of any type of donations.
Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 with the idea to create affordable housing for low-income families who had no place to call home. With the generosity of its supporters, today Habitat for Humanity has built more than 400,000 houses, and has provided shelter for more than 2 million people across the globe. The organization takes all types of donations including vehicles that can help families who need transportation for work.
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Animals
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The Humane Society of the United States is the country's largest animal protection organization. There are more than 11 million Americans who donate to the HSUS. Some of the work the HSUS is involved in is investigating animal cruelty, animal rescue, emergency response and advocating for animal protection. The HSUS also provides direct care within their shelters and veterinary clinics. The HSUS has locations all over the country and the website is updated with the latest information on animal laws and legislation.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals' mission is to help animals who suffer in laboratories, the clothing trade, factory farms and the entertainment industry. PETA works through education by helping to make people aware of some of the conditions that animals suffer. The organization is known for its celebrity endorsements and has more than 2 million supporters.
Children
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Started in 1980, the goal of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant children with terminal illnesses a wish that the children are unable to fulfill on their own or with their family. For example, the chance to meet their favorite idol, go to Disneyland or to ride a pony. The children are eligible to make a wish through three steps. The children must refer themselves or be referred by a medical professional or parent, their medical condition has to be evaluated, and a Make-A-Wish team is responsible for finding out the child's wish. Children also must be between the ages of 2 1/2 and 18 years old and have not received a granted wish from another organization. The supporters of Make-A-Wish Foundation can donate or volunteer.
Make A Child Smile is another organization that works to help children and their families with terminal illnesses. The organization offers financial assistance to families with a terminally sick child to help with expenses and even funeral costs. Make A Child Smile was started in 1998 and hopes to continue to assist children in need.
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