During Elul and the Yamim Noraim (Days of Awe), we are encouraged to give tzedakah. It is always meritorious to share our me’od (wealth). During the days of judgment, it is traditional to give extra during Elul to balance GOOD mitzvot with any potential blemishes from the past year. Here are three organizations that stretch your tzedakah monies.

Direct Relief International - This organization strengthens existing, fragile health systems in impoverished areas. Funds enable health workers that are already in resource-strapped areas to address crucial needs. The model uses exemplary leverage on the dollar. An impressive 98.8% of contributions go directly to program expenses. This means, for every dollar spent the organization is able to purchase $21-$35 in wholesale medical supplies. The selection is not random; health professionals working in each country make supply requests. DRI also pioneered open shareholder meetings and transparent reporting. What a relief in these days of institutional accountability!

Nothing But Nets - Malaria kills more than 1 million kids per year. There is a simple and cost-effective prevention. For every $10, Nothing But Nets purchases a mosquito bed net, delivers it to a third world family and explains its use. It's simple and it's working. The charity uses an impressive 97.1% of funds for program expenses.

Vitamin Angels - Vitamin A deficiency affects 100 to 140 million children each year, causing blindness for 250,000 to 500,000 children. This is caused by malnutrition. This program administers two high doses of vitamin A and two antiparasitics, per child, per year. The cost is .25 per year, for a four-year span. Imagine a single dollar saving a child from blindness! This organization boasts 98.1% expenditure for program expenses.

Big gifts are good, but gifts with big intent are worthy too. Share these with your community and encourage people to step up to GOOD.

Do you have a favorite fund that provides bang for the buck?
Let us know and we’ll share it next month.