It is common for agencies to send photos and personal information about an individual child to the sponsor, and then provide updated reports about the child’s progress. Sponsors may even receive letters or art from their sponsored children. But while donors may believe that their cash gifts are going directly to a particular child, this is not always the case. Many organizations work with villages or churches to provide programs that benefit entire communities, including the sponsored children living in those communities. Programs may include food and clothing distribution, health care, education, counseling and agricultural services, disaster relief, and religious education.

In many ways, the model of pooling funds makes sense, since much of the trouble these children face stems from trouble in their communities. In order to provide education to a child, a school may be necessary. In order to provide clean water, a well may be needed that could logically serve an entire village. However, many American sponsors want to give to a single child in order to have the feeling of being personally connected. To satisfy both donor and sponsored children’s needs, many organizations pool sponsor funding while still allowing sponsors to become pen pals with their children. It is up to sponsors to be informed about which model their chosen organization follows.

Before you make a commitment to sponsor a child:

The Council recommends that you request an annual report from any organization before deciding to sponsor a child, and consider the following before selecting an organization that fits your sponsorship interest:

1. Terms and structure of the sponsorship arrangement: Is your sponsorship a one-to-one arrangement, or will you be joining with other sponsors to aid a child and his/her community? Is it important to you that your money goes to support only one child?

2. The philosophy of the organization: Some organizations emphasize the feeding and education of children; others may use the funds to benefit children indirectly through agricultural training for parents or improvements to an entire community. Differences between organizations may also relate to the religious dimension of programs.

3. The organization’s accountability to the public: Does it meet Council standards? Does it provide adequate information to donors about its programs, structure, and expenditures?

4. The extent of your financial and personal commitment to a sponsorship relationship. Most organizations are happy to accept a one-time, non-sponsorship donation.

5. The fundraising techniques of an organization: Were you made to feel guilty or pressured to get involved? Remember that many charities are competing for limited funds and may resort to unethical methods of getting your contribution. To avoid being intimidated, be prepared with some questions to ask anyone seeking your contributions.