At Rev Up Hope, we recognize that donor skepticism is a vital part of giving. In a world where numerous charities are vying for your support, it’s essential to ensure your contributions are directed to trustworthy organizations. We want you to feel confident in your choice to partner with us.
This page outlines our rigorous multi-step verification process for vetting potential charity partners before they become proceeds recipients. Our commitment to transparency is not just a promise; it’s a standard that we uphold consistently to ensure your donations create lasting change.
✓Key facts you can verify
- All charity partners must be IRS 501(c)(3) verified.
- EIN verification performed via the IRS database.
- State charitable registration checked for compliance.
- Program expense ratio of 70% or higher preferred.
- Regular checks with Charity Navigator and BBB Wise Giving Alliance.
- Independent audits required for Form 990s.
How it works, step by step
IRS Verification
We start by ensuring the nonprofit has an active IRS 501(c)(3) status, cross-referencing their determination letter through the IRS pub78 database.
State Registration Check
Next, we verify the organization's compliance with state registration requirements using the charitable registration lookup specific to their state of operation.
Financial Review
We conduct a thorough review of the nonprofit’s Form 990, looking for a program expense ratio of at least 70%, indicating effective fund utilization.
Reputation Assessment
We check the nonprofit's ratings on Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, and GuideStar to ensure they meet ethical standards and quality benchmarks.
Governance and Audit Checks
Finally, we review the board governance for any self-dealing and confirm that independent audits are conducted on their Form 990 submissions.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Pub78 Lookup
How: Donors can verify the 501(c)(3) status and details of a charity using the IRS pub78 database, ensuring legitimacy.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: By searching on Charity Navigator, donors can access ratings and insights about a charity's financial health and transparency.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Checking the state Attorney General's registry helps donors identify if there are any complaints or legal issues associated with the charity.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Form 990 can be accessed via the IRS or through platforms like GuideStar, offering detailed financial information about the charity's operations.
✓ Better Business Bureau
How: The BBB Wise Giving Alliance provides reports on charities, allowing donors to see if the organization meets accountability and transparency standards.
Real impact, real numbers
In the last year alone, Rev Up Hope has facilitated over $500,000 in donations to local charities, supporting programs that have provided food security to 10,000 families and educational resources to 3,000 children across California. These figures exemplify how our rigorous vetting process ensures that your contributions directly translate into actionable outcomes, fostering hope and positive change in the community.
California oversight
California's Department of Justice oversees charity operations, requiring compliance with specific regulations. Complaints against charities can be filed with the Attorney General, who addresses issues ranging from mismanagement to fraud. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to guide donors in identifying trustworthy organizations, reinforcing our commitment to transparency and responsible stewardship of donations.
FAQ
What is the importance of a 501(c)(3) status?
How can I check if a charity is legitimate?
What does program expense ratio mean?
What are red flags in charity vetting?
How often do you re-verify your charity partners?
What if I have a complaint about a charity?
Can I donate directly to the charities you partner with?
More transparency pages
Your trust is paramount to us. At Rev Up Hope, we are committed to maintaining transparency throughout our charity partnerships. We invite you to explore our vetted partners and join us in making impactful contributions to the community. Together, we can drive positive change and support those in need.