Which organization would I trust to receive everything I own when I am no longer here?

New York, N.Y. — When considering the most impactful nonprofit organizations, I ask myself one simple question: Which organization would I trust to receive everything I own when I am no longer here?

That organization must be dedicated to uplifting humanity, be run responsibly, and make a measurable, meaningful impact. Many of the organizations I most admire have a personal connection to my family, and I have known them for most of my life.

Nonprofits Making a Difference in 2025

1. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

Since 1920, the ACLU has been America’s shield against authoritarianism. My uncle served on the board of the ACLU of Wisconsin, and I have supported their work since junior high school. In the face of attacks on democracy, the ACLU defends free speech, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice. Website: www.aclu.org

2. Amnesty International

I first encountered Amnesty International in Germany in the 1970s, where high schools had Amnesty clubs, much like debate teams in the U.S. Unlike many organizations, Amnesty has the courage to challenge governments—especially the U.S.—on human rights abuses. Their work to free prisoners of conscience, abolish the death penalty, and defend human dignity worldwide makes them indispensable. Website: www.amnesty.org

3. Greenpeace

As the world faces an unprecedented climate crisis, Greenpeace remains a leading force in environmental activism. They take on corporations and governments responsible for environmental destruction, advocate for clean energy solutions, and fight to preserve biodiversity. They don’t just talk about change—they make it happen. Website: www.greenpeace.org

4. Human Rights Campaign (HRC)

As the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy group in the U.S., HRC has been at the forefront of marriage equality, workplace protections, and anti-discrimination laws. As an LGBTQ+ individual, I have a personal stake in their work. In an era where LGBTQ+ rights are under renewed attack, HRC remains vital in the fight for equality. Website: www.hrc.org

5. Human Rights Watch (HRW)

HRW is one of the most respected voices for justice worldwide. From documenting war crimes to holding authoritarian regimes accountable, HRW exposes abuses that others shy away from. I worked closely with Don Reuben of the Reuben Foundation and the Rubin Museum, and Shelley Rubin has served on HRW’s board for decades. Their dedication to truth and accountability is second to none. Website: www.hrw.org

6. Humane Society of the United States

The fight for justice shouldn’t stop with humans. The Humane Society champions animal welfare, combats factory farming abuses, and advocates for stronger animal protection laws. As someone who intellectually aligns with vegetarianism (while still eating meat), I admire their commitment to ethical treatment of all living beings. Website: www.humanesociety.org

7. International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Founded during World War II to help refugees fleeing the Holocaust, the IRC has grown into a leading global humanitarian organization. I personally worked with them after the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia while leading Orphans International. Their work resettling refugees, providing emergency relief, and rebuilding communities is unparalleled. Website: www.rescue.org

8. NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People)

For over a century, the NAACP has been at the forefront of the battle for civil rights, racial justice, and voter protection in the United States. My parents worked alongside the NAACP during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, and my father received their Lifetime Achievement Award. Their relentless fight for equality makes them a cornerstone of progress.Website: www.naacp.org

9. Orphans International Worldwide (Orphans International Worldwide)

Every child deserves a future. Orphans International, which I founded, has worked across Africa, Asia, and the Americas to provide education, housing, and healthcare for orphaned children. I know firsthand the high return on investment of every dollar donated—our staff members have faced unimaginable hardships yet remain dedicated to serving children in need. Website: www .orphansinternational.org

10. Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)

For decades, SPLC has been America’s watchdog on hate groups, extremism, and racial injustice. Their intelligence reports on domestic terrorism, white supremacist movements, and political violence make them essential in today’s divided landscape. Their work helps protect marginalized communities from rising bigotry. Website: www.splcenter.org

Other Notable Organizations Worth Mentioning

• Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières) – Provides emergency medical aid in war zones, natural disasters, and underserved regions. Website: www.doctorswithoutborders.org
  
• Planned Parenthood – Protects reproductive rights and provides healthcare, education, and advocacy for millions of people. Website: www.plannedparenthood.org
  
• The Carter Center – Founded by former President Jimmy Carter, it works to promote democracy, eradicate disease, and advance human rights globally. Website: www.cartercenter.org

Final Thoughts

These organizations exemplify integrity, transparency, and impact. If I were to leave my entire estate to one of them, I could rest easy knowing my legacy would continue to uplift humanity.

Who would you trust with your life’s work?

2025 Rankings: Our Top Nonprofits Transforming Communities (April 2, 2025)

#Nonprofit, #Charity, #Philanthropy, #SocialGood, #GivingBack, #TopNonprofits, #NonprofitOrganizations, #DonateToday, #VolunteerWork, #Changemakers

Tags: Nonprofits, Charity Rankings 2025, Philanthropy, Top Charitable Organizations,
U.S. Nonprofits, Donations, Revenue Reports, Social Impact, Fundraising Leaders