Charity Navigator’s rating of 98% means that Heifer is recognized for exceeding or meeting best practices and industry standards across almost all areas, meaning you can give with confidence.
Heifer International Charity Ratings
To answer the question “Is Heifer International a good charity?” we invite you to explore our annual report, financial statements and our nonprofit ratings, including our top rating from Charity Navigator. We know that you want to give to a legitimate charity, and to ensure your donation will be used responsibly and make the most impact.
For more than 79 years, Heifer has provided impoverished families with the tools and resources they need to thrive. By empowering families in need with long-term solutions to hunger and poverty, Heifer has earned a place among the world’s most innovative and trusted charities.
GuideStar Silver Seal of Transparency
Our Guidestar Silver Seal of Transparency means we have shared information about our program information and brand details.
Heifer meets all 20 of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance’s standards for an accredited charity. Read our report.
Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize
Heifer is a Hilton Humanitarian Prize Laureate. This is the world’s largest humanitarian award presented to nonprofits who have made extraordinary contributions toward alleviating human suffering.
InterAction Member
Heifer is one of InterAction’s member organizations working in developing member organizations working in developing countries around the world.
Heifer received the 2023 Community Partner Award from the Department of Applied Communications at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
In 2012, Heifer received the Kiwanis International World Service Medal. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that devote a significant part of their lives to meeting the needs of others.
Social Capitalist Award
Heifer International received the 2006 and 2008 Social Capitalist award from Fast Company magazine.
Forbes Top Charities
In 2003, Heifer International was named one of Forbes magazine’s top 10 charities. The magazine surveyed 200 nonprofits and rated them on their efficiency.
Open Book Credit
The American Institute of Philanthropy, now CharityWatch.org, gave Heifer International an “Open Book Credit” for making its financial documentation available to the institute.
Presidential End Hunger Award
In 1990, President George H.W. Bush honored Heifer with the Presidential End Hunger Award, which was given to citizens and institutions for their efforts to end global hunger.
Volunteer Action Award
In 1986, President Ronald Reagan recognized Heifer with the Volunteer Action Award.
Reviews from Real Donors
Read testimonials and reviews from real-life donors to Heifer International.
“Great charity for holiday giving … A very worthwhile organization that helps people learn to survive on their own and learn a skill that will help them so much more than a handout.” – Patty V.
“I love how Heifer works with communities on a large scale but affects people on an individual scale. Heifer keeps growing and changing and keeping up with what’s needed right now.” – Sheryl K.
“The Heifer model really allows for creating self-sustaining families and communities while also being sure that there’s a tremendous amount of dignity.” – Emily R.
“One of the best world organizations to donate to.” – Karen K.
“We LOVE Heifer!!! We’ve given money as a family to this organization for a few years.” – Andie A.
“The work Heifer does has had a positive impact in dozens of countries since the ‘40s, and continues to help those most in need get the tools to build a community that can sustain itself, and then pass on the gift when they are able.” – Aileen B.
“The mission of Heifer = community empowerment! This is one of my favorite charitable organizations simply because of the thought and planning behind what they do.” – Terry L.
“We too are sustainers of this wonderful organization. A great model that has been emulated by others.” – Hanalei R.
“My most beloved charity.” – Maggie K.
Donate Today
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