At Chesapeake Chariots, we recognize that many donors have valid concerns regarding transparency and accountability in charitable giving. In an age where every dollar counts, ensuring your contributions support legitimate and effective nonprofits is our priority. To meet this expectation, we have implemented a stringent vetting process for all charity partners we work with.
This page outlines our comprehensive multi-step verification process designed to provide you with peace of mind while making a difference in your community. Transparency is not just a promise; it is a standard we uphold rigorously, ensuring that every nonprofit we partner with meets our high-quality criteria.
✓Key facts you can verify
- IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter verified via pub78
- EIN database lookup to confirm nonprofit identity
- State charitable registration verified for operational compliance
- Form 990 analysis with a preferred program-expense ratio of 70%+
- Checks against Charity Navigator and BBB Wise Giving Alliance
- Board governance reviewed for self-dealing indicators
- Annual re-verification to maintain updated compliance status
How it works, step by step
Initial Application Review
Nonprofits must submit a full application, including their IRS determination letter and EIN. We begin by checking their IRS status and whether they are registered in their state.
Financial Assessment
We conduct a thorough review of the nonprofit's Form 990 to analyze their program expense ratio, ensuring it exceeds 70%. Organizations with a ratio below 60% are automatically rejected.
External Evaluations
We verify the nonprofit’s ratings through Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, and GuideStar. This helps us understand their overall credibility and donor satisfaction levels.
Governance and Compliance Check
The nonprofit's board governance structure is reviewed to ensure no self-dealing or related-party transactions are present. We also search for any complaints filed with the Attorney General.
Annual Re-verification
Each charity goes through an annual vetting process to ensure ongoing compliance. This includes re-evaluating financials and checking for new complaints or updates to their status.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS pub78 Lookup
How: Visit the IRS pub78 website to confirm the nonprofit's 501(c)(3) status. This database provides real-time verification of their tax-exempt status.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Search for the nonprofit on Charity Navigator to check their ratings, transparency scores, and financial health. This is a trusted resource for donor insights.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Look up the nonprofit in your state’s Attorney General charity registry to verify that they are registered and to check for any complaints filed against them.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Access the nonprofit’s Form 990 through Guidestar or the IRS website. This form provides detailed financial information and program expenses.
✓ Better Business Bureau (BBB) Check
How: Search the BBB website to see if the nonprofit is accredited and to review any consumer complaints, which can give insight into their operational integrity.
Real impact, real numbers
In the past year alone, Chesapeake Chariots has partnered with several vetted nonprofits, resulting in over $500,000 raised to support local educational programs. Our efforts helped fund scholarships for 150 students and provide essential resources to underfunded schools, directly impacting the lives of countless children in Maryland. Each dollar donated was carefully allocated to ensure maximum benefit for the community.
Maryland oversight
In Maryland, charitable organizations are overseen by the Office of the Attorney General. This office provides resources for consumers to report complaints and verify the legitimacy of nonprofits. By using local resources, donors can make informed choices and support causes that align with their values while ensuring the organizations they contribute to are compliant and transparent.
FAQ
How do I know the charity is legitimate?
What red flags do you look for during vetting?
How often do you verify the charities?
What if I find a complaint against a charity?
Can I check the financials of the charity?
Are you transparent about your own operations?
What is the minimum program expense ratio you accept?
More transparency pages
At Chesapeake Chariots, we believe in empowering our donors with information and trust. We invite you to explore our vetted charity partners and consider supporting their vital work in our Maryland communities. Your contributions make a difference, and together, we can create positive change.