A charity is a nonprofit organization whose efforts are focused on aiding those in need. This can take several forms, which can be local or international in scope. Some raise money or provide services like food, clothing, or shelter to underprivileged communities. Others promote the welfare of animals through research, shelters, rehabilitation, or conservation efforts. Others still might focus on environmental issues, public health, education, community development, or the arts, though this list is not exhaustive. Charities can be religious or secular in nature. In any case, all charities are tax-exempt in the United States under the Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3).
[Last updated in June of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team]