We See Something Good in Every Child

Questions Donors Should Ask

Donor Bill of Rights

Give to the charity of your choice...but give wisely.

This time of year, many stories are written in the news about the Better Business Bureau's charity rating guide.  Starr Commonwealth is an accredited charity and has been evaluated according to the 20 Better Business Bureau Standards for Charity Accountability.

Click here for full reliability report for Starr Commonwealth.

When a charitable institution asks for support, what questions should you ask in return?

There are many institutions that seek your financial support.  Investing in one could give you a return that truly touches your heart.  You can create a lasting legacy that shows your concern and commitment to a better world.  But how can you know you're making the right choice?  What questions should you ask to make sure your gift is achieving the most results?

To help you make your decision, we've prepared some answers to these questions and others.  We want you to know that Starr Commonwealth is not only one of the best investments in the future of children, it's also one of the nation's best choices in charities.

Q:  How much of a donation goes to benefit those who need help?
A:  Independent sources, such as Consumers Digest and Worth magazine, have ranked Starr Commonwealth as one of the most efficient charities.  Currently, we estimate that over 80 cents out of every dollar works directly for the benefit of the children entrusted to our care.

Q:  How is Starr Commonwealth able to operate so efficiently?
A:  We constantly focus on our core values that lead us to believe there is something worthwhile in every kid.  Starr Commonwealth is dedicated to the well-being of children and families through programs and people of integrity, excellence, compassion and faith.  Our structure is established and mature to make sure the highest percentage of our budget goes to provide direct linkage to those in our care.

Q:  What is the history of the organization? A:  Starting with the vision and drive of our founder, Floyd Starr, Starr Commonwealth has helped homeless, neglected, delinquent and abused children for nearly 100 years.  Building from a 40-acre farm in 1913, our facilities now encompass 350 acres on our home campus near Albion, Michigan, and we operate facilities in Battle Creek and Detroit, Michigan, as well as Van Wert and Columbus, Ohio.  We have expanded our outreach to two states, and our programs have been nationally recognized for their unique and highly successful methods.

Floyd With Starr Boys

Q:  Where do you obtain your funding?
A:  Starr Commonwealth is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.  We are able to serve over 5,000 children, families and professionals due to the generosity of thousands of private and corporate donors.  This generosity closes the gap between the government rates for child care, and the actual cost of these quality services.

Q:  What would be the best way to give?
A:  Whatever way you want to give would make a dramatic difference in the lives of the children in our care.  There is no shortage of troubled children, and a direct cash donation can help us help them today.  For longer term needs, our legacy programs, charitable remainder trusts, and named endowments will create a gift that will keep supporting Starr Commonwealth into perpetuity - Learn more about planned giving.