The Giving Directory

Editorial

Articles on effective giving

In-depth essays on charity evaluation, the psychology of philanthropy, tax-smart giving, and how to make every dollar matter.

Psychology & Behavior

The Psychology of Giving: Why We Donate and How to Give More Effectively

Science reveals fascinating reasons why humans give — and surprising ways to channel that generosity toward maximum impact.

January 20, 2026 8 min read
Effective Altruism

A Beginner's Guide to Effective Altruism: How to Maximize Your Impact

Effective Altruism asks a deceptively simple question: what if we could be smarter about how we give? Here's everything you need to know to get started.

January 22, 2026 9 min read
Donor Education

How to Evaluate a Charity Yourself: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Not everyone trusts third-party ratings. This guide walks you through the exact steps to vet any charity on your own before you donate.

January 25, 2026 10 min read
Impact & Motivation

The Ripple Effect: How Small Donations Create Enormous Change

People often assume their donation is too small to matter. The math — and the evidence — tells a very different story.

January 28, 2026 7 min read
Psychology & Behavior

Mental Health and Giving: Why Charitable Acts Improve Your Wellbeing

Donating to charity does more than help others — research shows it measurably improves the mental health of the giver.

January 29, 2026 7 min read
Donor Education

The Tax Benefits of Charitable Giving: A Donor's Guide

Understanding how charitable giving interacts with your taxes can significantly increase the impact of every dollar you donate.

January 30, 2026 8 min read
Donor Education

5 Red Flags That Should Make You Think Twice Before Donating

Not every charity deserves your money. Learn the warning signs that indicate a nonprofit may not be using donations responsibly.

January 31, 2026 6 min read
Impact & Motivation

How Gen Z Is Reshaping Philanthropy: The Future of Charitable Giving

Gen Z donors are rewriting the playbook on charitable giving — demanding transparency, embracing micro-giving, and building movements online.

January 31, 2026 7 min read