Charity selection links

Introduction
Regardless of the methods by which an individual contributes to charity (e.g., direct gifts, split-interest gifts, donor-advised funds), selection of the organizations deserving support is a daunting task. The choices are primarily influenced by personal beliefs and preferences, but the links below may provide some guidance.

Tax deductibility
If an individual in the U.S. is itemizing their income tax deductions, some charitable contributions are eligible to be deducted. There are regulations regarding the form, valuation, documentation, and recipient of the contribution. Not all tax exempt organizations can receive tax deductible contributions. (For example, political campaigns are generally tax exempt, but contributions to them are not tax deductible.) IRS publication 78 lists many eligible organizations, but excludes government units, churches, subordinate units of certain organizations, and organizations without activity in the last couple years.

Links
IRS Publication 78 Incomplete list of organizations eligible for tax deductible contributions

Charity Navigator (Charity evaluator)

GuideStar (Nonprofit database)

BBB Wise Giving Alliance (Charity evaluator)

Effective Charity (Forum topic)