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Room to Read Recognized With Charity Navigator 4-Star Rating And NGO Advisor Top NGO Ranking

July 01, 2016

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Room to Read has earned two notable recognitions for demonstrating fiscal responsibility and programmatic impact, differentiating Room to Read from its peers and demonstrating to the public it is worthy of their trust and investment. Charity Navigator, America's largest, most utilized, independent evaluator of charities, has once again awarded Room to Read the coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management, and commitment to accountability and transparency. Additionally, NGO Advisor, a Geneva-based independent media organization committed to highlighting innovation, impact and governance in the nonprofit sector, has ranked Room to Read #13 in their annual Top 500 NGO’s ranking.

Room to Read has achieved ten 4-star ratings from Charity Navigator since 2007, indicating that Room to Read outperforms most other charities in America. As the nonprofit sector continues to experience unprecedented growth, savvy donors are demanding more accountability, transparency and quantifiable results from the charities they choose to support. Receiving 4 out of a possible 4 stars indicates that Room to Read is capable of efficiently managing and growing its finances while adhering to good governance and other best practices that minimize the possibility of unethical activities. An overview of Room to Read’s performance metrics can be found on the organization’s Charity Navigator rating page.

Charity Navigator bases its rating analysis on a charity’s financial health, accountability and transparency. Room to Read has proudly earned its 4-star rating for continuing to execute its mission in a fiscally responsible manner, with 84.7% of total expenses directed towards program costs. Rating 100 out of a possible 100 for accountability and transparency, Room to Read’s dedication to best business practices has led to conducting independent audits and openly publishing its financial records.

NGO Advisor researches, evaluates and ranks NGOs in order to showcase best practices and novel ideas in the nonprofit sector. NGO ADVISOR monitors the international nonprofit community for ideas, practices, and models that challenge traditional approaches to the non-governmental organization (NGO). Room to Read has risen considerably in the ranking this year; the organization was previously ranked #23 in 2015 and #26 in 2014.

“These recognitions continue to support and underscore to our investors that their contributions are being used responsibly to champion the futures of the children we serve," says Shari Freedman, Room to Read’s Chief Financial Officer. “We will continue to bring systemic change to an increasing number of communities while honoring our commitment to sound fiscal management, transparency and high quality programs.”