In late 2012, my wife and I looked at our list and decided to reallocate our giving. One big goal was to devote a higher percentage of our charitable budget to projects in the developing world, where additional dollars could materially change or save lives.

Is your charitable giving having the impact you expect? Are your dollars doing the work you intended? Is it time to reassess your personal philanthropy?

If you are wrestling with these and similar questions, you may be interested in a recent article in The New York Times titled “Donating, and Making Sure the Money Is Put to Work.”

It is natural to want your charitable dollar to effect the greatest good and have the greatest impact. When that happens, it can be genuinely satisfying to both giver and receiver. In fact, when really done right, it may be harder to tell who truly is on the receiving end.

On the other hand, it can be rather disheartening when there is needless waste.

Case in point: the original article tells the story of a useful organization known as GiveWell and the troubled relationship with Against Malaria Foundation.

Perhaps you have your own concerns and your own story. If you are only just starting to reevaluate your charitable giving, then consider reading this article for any relevant advice.

For more information about charitable giving, please visit my estate planning website.

Reference: The New York Times (April 25, 2014) “Donating, and Making Sure the Money Is Put to Work”