by Sandra Miniutti
- USA -

During the holiday season many of us are deciding which charity to support with our gifts. To help determine which charity is best for you, The WIP Editors are republishing the following article about an independent charity evaluator and how to make the most out of your donations. Please consider a donation to The WIP to support women's voices and global perspectives on relevant issues from around the world. - Ed.

After a short career as a scientist, after many years volunteering and contributing to various causes and after earning a MBA, I decided to leave corporate America for the non-profit sector. My first position was working at a local art, science and history museum. Quickly, I was initiated into the world of non-profit marketing and fundraising. Not many surprises there. We struggled to make payroll while producing quality exhibits and educational programming. The work was exhausting, but fulfilling.