In an era where transparency is more crucial than ever, donor skepticism is entirely justified. At Wheel Give Back, we prioritize your trust by ensuring that every charity we partner with is thoroughly vetted. Our multi-step verification process aims to provide you with peace of mind, allowing your generosity to make a meaningful impact.
This page outlines our detailed vetting procedures, which go beyond mere compliance. By implementing stringent checks and balances, we strive to maintain a high standard of accountability, affirming that partnering with us means contributing to reputable and responsible nonprofit organizations.
✓Key facts you can verify
- All charity partners must have a valid IRS 501(c)(3) status.
- We verify organizations using the IRS pub78 and EIN databases.
- State charitable registrations are checked for compliance in their operating states.
- Form 990s are reviewed for a program-expense ratio of 70% or higher.
- We consult Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, and GuideStar ratings.
- An annual re-verification process is conducted for all partners.
- Any organization with a history of complaints or self-dealing is rejected.
How it works, step by step
Initial Application
Charities submit an application along with their IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter. We start by verifying their nonprofit status using IRS pub78 and the EIN database to ensure legitimacy.
State Registration Check
Next, we verify the charity’s registration status with the appropriate state charitable registration authority to confirm they are compliant in their state of operation.
Financial Review
We conduct a detailed review of the charity’s Form 990, looking for a program-expense ratio of 70% or higher, as we prioritize organizations that effectively utilize donations for their missions.
Reputation Assessment
Assessments through platforms like Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, and GuideStar help us verify credibility and public standing, ensuring no red flags are present.
Annual Re-verification
Every year, we revisit our charity partners to ensure they continue to meet our standards, with checks against complaint histories and updates in governance.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS pub78 Lookup
How: You can independently verify a charity's IRS status through the pub78 database, ensuring they are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Visit Charity Navigator to view ratings and reviews of the organizations we partner with, checking for transparency and fiscal health statistics.
✓ State Attorney General Registry
How: Each state maintains a registry of registered charities; checking this can reveal any standing complaints filed against the organization.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Form 990s can be accessed online, providing insights into a charity’s financials, governance, and operational transparency.
✓ Better Business Bureau (BBB) Review
How: The BBB provides ratings and reviews of charities which can help you assess their credibility and complaint history.
Real impact, real numbers
In 2022, Wheel Give Back partnered with local charities that provided food assistance to over 5,000 families in Norfolk, translating to more than $300,000 in essential resources. Our vetted partners, focusing on community well-being, have utilized 85% of funds directly for program services, ensuring that your donations make a direct impact where it's needed most.
Norfolk oversight
In Norfolk, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services oversees charitable organizations, helping maintain transparency and accountability. If you’d like to report a complaint regarding a charity, the Virginia Attorney General's Office offers a straightforward process for consumer protection. Local resources are available to help guide you in making informed donation decisions.
FAQ
How do I know a charity is legitimate?
What red flags should I look for in charities?
What happens if a charity is found to be non-compliant?
Is Wheel Give Back fully transparent about its processes?
What if I have a complaint about a charity?
Can I suggest a charity for you to vet?
Are there any costs associated with donating through Wheel Give Back?
More transparency pages
We invite you to explore our vetted charity partners and join us in making a meaningful impact in Norfolk. Your trust is paramount, and together, we can ensure that your generosity reaches those who need it most. Learn more about our partners and how you can contribute today!