Santa Barbara, California, Dec. 1 -- As the year comes to a close, many people explore ways to make meaningful year-end charitable contributions that reflect personal priorities. With one-third of annual giving occurring in December alone, this period offers an opportunity to support organizations working in areas that align with individual values.

For those seeking to make thoughtful and impactful charitable gifts during the holiday season, several considerations can help guide the decision-making process. These include identifying the issues that feel most significant and understanding how to evaluate nonprofit transparency, stewardship, and overall performance.

A thoughtful approach to year-end giving often begins with identifying th...