Prior to making a donation to a nonprofit organization, check if it is legitimate and transparent by ensuring its tax-exempt status and reviewing ratings on websites such as Charity Navigator or GuideStar. Check the utilization of donations by reviewing financial statements and impact reports. Check the mission and values of the organization to determine if they align with your intentions. Ensure transparency in expenditure so that a majority of funds is directed towards programs and not administrative expenses. Look at donation options, tax deductibility, and if the nonprofit provides secure payment options. Lastly, look at previous success stories to determine its effectiveness in creating a tangible impact with donations.