American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association is committed to preventing and curing diabetes, a metabolic disorder that affects an estimated 20 million men, women and children in the United States. Founded in 1940, the ADA conducts programs in all 50 states to improve the lives of diabetics across the country. Out of each dollar spent by the ADA, 78 cents support research, advocacy and services for people affected by the disease.
American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is the largest source of private, nonprofit cancer research funds in the United States. It has invested nearly $3 billion in cancer research since 1946. Cancer kills more than a half a million Americans each year, equaling more than 1,500 deaths per day. In the United States, cancer accounts for one of every four deaths. Donations to the ACS support research, community service, advocacy and public policy branches of the organization.
UNICEF
UNICEF, or the United Nations Children's Fund, provides humanitarian aid to children and mothers in developing countries. The organization focuses on child development, health and nutrition, education and gender equality to ensure that children across the world grow up with basic human rights. With staff in over 150 countries and territories, UNICEF is the world's leading children's organization. Current donations support the group's Unite For Children, Unite Against AIDS program, a global AIDS relief project. Contributions also support humanitarian support in the Sudan, where a $3 donation can buy a large wool blanket to protect children from the cold during an emergency.
American Red Cross
Comprised mostly of volunteers, the American Red Cross provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. The organization responds to more than 70,000 disasters each year, including everything from apartment fires to major natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina. The Red Cross activated more than 200,000 volunteers in the aftermath of the 2005 hurricane that devastated New Orleans, La. Donations to the Red Cross help the organization maintain its resources and properly train its volunteers.
Make-a-Wish Foundation
The Make-a-Wish Foundation is the country's largest wish-granting organization. It works with children suffering from life-threatening medical conditions to help those children accomplish one of their goals. From setting up meetings with famous athletes to sending children to Disney World, the foundation has granted almost 150,000 wishes since it was founded in 1980. Charitable contributions support the organization's attempts to make children's dreams come true.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Founded in 1866, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is the oldest humane organization in the United States. It has worked for over 140 years to eliminate injustices toward animals. The group saves abused pets and works to pass laws that support the humane treatment of animals. Donations benefit all of the ASPCA's efforts to provide quality veterinary care to animals everywhere.
Children with AIDS Charity
The Children with AIDS Charity is at the forefront of the fight against pediatric HIV and AIDS. The group uses donations to fund its three-pronged approach of education, transport assistance and financial support to children and families affected by the disease.
