"Look for organizations that clearly outline their objectives...For example, the group Oceana aims to protect the world's oceans from pollution and overfishing. When it launches a project, it sets a specific goal that it thinks can be accomplished in five years or less. Forget about groups that focus on raising awareness. Instead, look for ‘charities that are actually doing something, as opposed to telling people the problem exists.' -- Trent Stamp, president of Charity Navigator, which rates nonprofit groups.