Habitat for Humanity earns four-star charity rating
Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties not only provides a hand up for people who dream to own their own home, but does it in an efficient way.
The North Fort Myers-based organization recently earned a four-star charity rating for the ninth time since 2004 from Charity Navigator, the nation’s largest charity evaluator, the organization’s highest ranking.
Habitat has been recognized by Charity Navigator for its sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency according to its complicated process of reviewing organizations in several categories.
The evaluation showed Habitat for Humanity that for every dollar raised 94 percent is spent on direct program expenses, meaning that Habitat for Humanity consistently achieves its organizational mission while closely monitoring the financial support of its donors and granting organizations.
“For people outside the organization, they can be rest assured that a third party has reviewed our financials and how we conduct business,” said Kitty Green, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties. “We operate with the upmost transparency and follow good business practices.”
According to its website, Charity Navigator provides ratings so donors can make informed decisions on what charities to give their money to and so the philanthropic community can more effectively monitor itself.
Charity Navigator rates charities by evaluating their financial health and their accountability and transparency.
The ratings show potential donors how efficiently Charity Navigator believes a charity will use their support today, how well it has sustained its programs and services over time and their level of commitment to being accountable and transparent.
“In the future, Charity Navigator plans to rate charities according to their results. We provide these ratings so that givers can make intelligent giving decisions,” the website said.
Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to provide opportunities for low-income families to be able to live in their own home.
“We work hard to be efficient with our donors’ dollars, so it’s nice to have a private party recognize the fact that it is the case,” Green said.
In a prepared statement, Green credited the board of directors that always aims to be fiscally responsible while “increasing the capacity and outreach of our programs to assist low-income families in our community.”
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity, its mission and work, go to its website, www.Habitat4Humanity.org or call 652-0434.