At Hoosier Wheels, we recognize that donors deserve transparency and accountability when contributing to charitable causes. It's only natural to question how donations are used and which organizations are truly making a difference. With many nonprofits vying for your support, we want to assure you that we take our responsibility seriously.
This page outlines the rigorous multi-step verification process we employ to vet our charity partners before designating them as recipients of our proceeds. Our goal is to ensure that every organization we partner with operates ethically and effectively, making the best use of donations to benefit those in need.
✓Key facts you can verify
- All partners must have a valid IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter.
- We verify state charitable registrations for operational compliance.
- Preferred program expense ratio is 70% or more of total expenditures.
- Charity Navigator and BBB Wise Giving Alliance checks are conducted.
- No self-dealing or related-party transactions are permitted.
- Annual re-verification of all partners ensures continued compliance.
How it works, step by step
Initial Application
Charities must submit an application along with their IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter. We verify this via IRS pub78 and the EIN database to confirm legitimacy.
State Compliance Check
We conduct a charitable registration lookup for each organization in their state of operation, ensuring they are compliant with state laws and regulations for fundraising.
Financial Review
A thorough review of the charity's Form 990 is conducted, focusing on financial health and ensuring the program expense ratio is at least 70% to guarantee proper fund allocation.
Reputation Assessment
We check ratings and reviews on platforms like Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, and GuideStar to assess the nonprofit's public perception and accountability.
Ongoing Monitoring
Each vetted partner undergoes annual re-verification, ensuring compliance with all standards. We also check for any complaints filed with the Attorney General's office.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Pub78 Lookup
How: You can verify the nonprofit's IRS status by checking the IRS's Pub78 database for their 501(c)(3) determination letter, confirming their legitimacy.
✓ Charity Navigator Evaluation
How: Visit Charity Navigator's website to review the nonprofit's ratings and overall financial health, including their program expense ratios and transparency scores.
✓ State Registration Verification
How: Access your state’s charity registration database to confirm that the nonprofit is properly registered and compliant with state fundraising regulations.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Nonprofits are required to file Form 990 annually. You can access this document through platforms like GuideStar for insights into their financial practices.
✓ Attorney General Complaint Records
How: Check the Indiana Attorney General’s website for any filed complaints against the nonprofit, which can provide insight into their operational history.
Real impact, real numbers
In our last fiscal year, Hoosier Wheels partnered with local charities that provided essential services to over 5,000 Indiana families. Through our vetted partners, we contributed more than $200,000, enabling them to offer food assistance, educational programs, and health services in our community. The result? A measurable increase in resources available for those in need, creating tangible outcomes in improving lives throughout Indiana.
Indiana oversight
In Indiana, charitable organizations are overseen by the Indiana Attorney General's office, which provides a simple process for filing complaints and monitoring nonprofit activities. Donors can access local consumer-protection resources to stay informed about the charities operating within our state. This ensures that you have access to the necessary tools to make informed decisions when supporting local causes.
FAQ
How can I be sure my donations are used effectively?
What are the red flags you look for in potential partners?
How often do you review your charity partners?
Can I find information about these charities myself?
What happens if a charity fails to meet standards?
Do you accept new charity partnerships frequently?
Why is transparency so important to Hoosier Wheels?
More transparency pages
We invite you to explore our charity partners and join us in making a difference in Indiana. Your support ensures that only the most vetted and effective organizations receive assistance. Thank you for your commitment to transparency and community impact.