GuideStar

A free service on the programs and finances of charities and nonprofits, news on philanthropy, and resources for donors and volunteers. Search by name, keyword, city or state, nonprofit type (public charity, private operating foundation, or private nonoperating foundation), or income range. "'GuideStar', produced by Philanthropic Research, Inc. (PRI), is a searchable directory that provides detailed information on more than 850,000 nonprofit organizations. The database covers 'IRS-registered 501 nonprofit organizations that may accept tax-deductible contributions'. Free profiles cover mission and programs, financials, leaders, and most importantly, full text via PDF of the charity's IRS 990 filing from 1998 forward in most cases. Form 990 provides information on revenues, expenses, programs, activities, executive salaries and board members. Be aware that information not drawn from the 990 is self-reported by the organization to PRI. Nonetheless, GuideStar has made researching and comparing public charitable organizations much easier and is appropriate for any public or academic library user."--"Best Free Reference Web Sites 2002," RUSA Quarterly, Fall 2002; reviewed 2/23/2002.