Don't be bashful about asking tough questions. Do not rely on anecdotes supplied by the organizations. Force them into supplying specifics. Ask the organization to separate its goals into time periods, and then track the results. Study the organization's past accomplishments and relate them to the dollars spent.
Financial position is important.
Funds may be needed, but an organization should not be so strapped that it is likely to fail in its mission. Treat any one ratio that seems improper as a serious cause for concern. Look elsewhere if an organization refuses to supply information. Incidentally, annual reports of many charitable organizations do not list the endowment funds held. All anyone had to do was ask.