While independently funded and operated, it functions in tandem with the BBB in creating, funding, and carrying out special educational programs and research projects. 1996 marks the its 10th anniversary of offering programs to promote ethical conduct among charitable groups and to provide information to donors regarding non-profit organizations that solicit in the New York area. Twice a year we publish a booklet which lists information on all the charities we have evaluated.
Donors can turn to the guide to know which charities are well-run and use donations wisely.
It also indicates whether or not they meet the PAS standards for charitable solicitations. The Council of Better Business Bureaus met with business leaders, heads of corporate giving programs, foundations and charities themselves to create Standards by which the operations of national charitable organizations could be evaluated. These Standards encompass the areas of most concern to philanthropists, corporations and foundations. The Education and Research Foundation adopted the PAS Standards with some variation to meet New York State laws. The Standards emphasize clear disclosure in fundraising solicitations and stress that donated funds should be used for the purposes stated in the solicitation.