Associative commitment and actions adapted by NGOs play a crucial role in our society to support those who need it most. In our quest to make the world a better place, it is natural to want to contribute and support these organizations. However, it is essential to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of an association or NGO before committing or making a donation. But then, how do you know that an NGO is reliable and trustworthy?
Discover 6 key criteria to assess the reliability of an organization. By following these tips, you can get involved with peace of mind, knowing that your contribution is in good hands.
Check legal status
The legal status of an association or NGO is of paramount importance when determining its reliability. Indeed, before providing your support, it is essential to check whether the organization is correctly declared and registered with the competent authorities. This step is crucial to ensure the legitimacy of the association.
You can generally find this information on the official website of the organization in the legal notices section or by consulting the national directory of associations (RNA) published in the official journal. Make sure the association is legally in good standing, as this ensures that it operates in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Among the many organizations, you will find LIFE, declared as an association under the law of July 1, 1901, recognized as being of public utility.
By verifying the legal status, you are therefore laying the foundations for a confident commitment to a legitimate and responsible association or NGO.
Check the availability of annual accounts
The availability of annual accounts is an essential aspect of the transparency of an association or NGO. Indeed, these financial documents are much more than a simple sheet of figures, they offer a clear and detailed vision of monetary flows, sources of financing and the use of these funds. Every euro is carefully tracked.
When considering supporting an organization, take the time to search their site for the most recent annual accounts. This transparency demonstrates the organization's commitment to accountability and builds trust with donors and partners.
At LIFE, total transparency is a fundamental value that guides our actions. Would you like to know how we mobilize the resources necessary to carry out our actions? We invite you to consult our annual accounts directly on our website or on the national directory of associations (RNA).
Association donation: check accessibility by telephone
The availability of an association or NGO by telephone is an important indicator of its seriousness. It’s also an indicator of their engagement and willingness to interact with you. Find the organization's telephone contact information on its website or in relevant directories.
Ready to ask questions, share your ideas and collaborate? You are the key to the success of inspiring projects.
Association donation: publication of audited annual reports
Audited annual reports are the key to confidently evaluating organizations. They contain detailed information on the activities, projects carried out and results obtained by the organization throughout the year. This transparency demonstrates the organization's commitment to communicating its actions and results.
By researching audited annual reports, you will have a comprehensive view of the organization's activities and impact. These reports allow you to evaluate the effectiveness of the organization in achieving its goals.
Favoring associations that publish verified annual reports means choosing to support responsible and trustworthy organizations.
Check membership in known networks
Membership in networks demonstrates the commitment of an association and its unwavering desire to act with other actors of change. By ensuring that the organization concerned is affiliated with recognized networks, you ensure its legitimacy and its influence.
In 2023, LIFE joined the prestigious ranks of two renowned groups: Humanitarian Coordination and Development (CHD) and Coordination SUD.
Check reputation and impact
In-depth research into the reputation of the association or NGO can also give you insight into its real impact.
Check out testimonials from beneficiaries, donors, volunteers or partners to get an idea of how the organization is perceived and the scope of its work.
Evaluations and rankings carried out by independent organizations can also help you assess the effectiveness of the organization in carrying out its projects.
Since 2009, LIFE has already provided lifesaving assistance to more than 13.2 million people in 25 countries. To change lives, we can count on the valuable support of more than 180,000 Lifechangers.
Supporting an association or NGO is a positive action, but it is essential to take precautions to ensure its reliability. Do your research, ask questions to contribute to legitimate causes and make a positive impact.
Your support can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.Together we can build a better world.
Join us and become a Lifechanger!
