There are countless aid organizations, charities and foundations working to fix the world’s problems. From technology-based companies to loan providers, to construction companies, to sustainable agriculture, the options are truly endless.

If you are a donor who wants to make a difference, but you are overwhelmed by the volume of deserving organizations, here are some tips on how to choose the charity that’s right for you:

1. Decide what area of support interests you.
Do you want to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, heal the sick and injured or stabilize a suffering economy? There are many different categories of aid that each function for different purposes. Decide which type of aid you are most passionate about.

2. Ask yourself who you want to help.
Maybe you are more inclined to help refugees escaping violence than children needing surgery, or maybe you understand more about providing technology to darkened communities than rebuilding communities affected by natural disasters. Different groups of people are affected by different conflicts and issues. Once you narrow down the country and specific group of people you want to help the most, it becomes easier to choose which organization will fit your needs.

3. Do a background check on the organization or charity.
Donating money can be incredibly rewarding and beneficial, if you are donating to the right cause. Many false organizations exist that scam good-hearted donors, exploiting their lack of knowledge about the aid organization market to cheat them out of their hard-earned profits. Call the office and ask questions about where and how your money will be used. Research the organization and look at reviews from other donors.

4. Ask fellow donors where they donated.
Asking local community members or friends and family where they like to donate money is a good jumping-off point. This will help to get your own ideas flowing.

5. Work for the organization.
If you have enough free time to volunteer at one of the organization’s events or intern in its offices, you can get a first-hand, inside look into how the organization operates and exactly what is being done to reach its goals.

6. Decide how much money you want to spend.
Many people think that donations to charity must occur in lump sums, but there are many flexible program subscriptions that offer monthly payments. Decide which payment plan is right for you and what you can afford to give.

If you follow these steps and choose your charity wisely, your donations could drastically improve or even save the lives of people around the world.

– Hanna Darroll

Sources: Forbes, Charity Navigator
Photo: Zero Hedge