The 2024 Forbes list of America’s Top 100 Charities highlights the significant impact of major charitable organizations, especially in disaster relief.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Top 100 Charities, a prestigious distinction that underscores the Institute’s outstanding contributions to cancer treatment, research, and patient care. This acknowledgment highlights Dana-Farber’s significant impact not only in advancing cancer therapies but also in its commitment to improving the lives of patients and their families.
As part of this list, Dana-Farber joins other top organizations that receive substantial private donations and are highly regarded for their philanthropic work. The recognition reflects the Institute’s continued leadership in both the clinical and research aspects of cancer care, further solidifying its role as a global powerhouse in oncology.
A notable feature is that many of these charities, including Direct Relief (ranked No. 5) and World Central Kitchen (ranked No. 82), are quick to respond during crises like Hurricane Helene, providing essential resources such as health care supplies, hot meals, and clean water. About 25% of the top 100 charities report engaging in disaster relief activities, showcasing their crucial role in responding to urgent needs.
The charities on this list collectively raised nearly $64 billion in private donations in their most recent fiscal year, reflecting a 4% increase from the previous year. This outpaces the 2% growth in overall charitable giving across all nonprofits in the country, emphasizing the influence of well-established organizations. These 100 charities alone account for approximately one-ninth of all charitable donations in the U.S. The cutoff for inclusion on this prestigious list was $194 million in donations, a rise from $186 million in 2023, underscoring the growing scale of philanthropic support.
Forbes bases its rankings on private contributions, excluding government grants, service payments, and investment returns. Detailed information about each charity’s financial efficiency, mission categories (such as domestic or international needs, health, or youth), and the compensation of its highest-paid individual is available for those interested in evaluating the organizations. The list helps donors make informed decisions about their contributions, with additional stories explaining the methodology behind the rankings and offering further guidance on how to assess charity performance.
About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, founded in 1947 by Dr. Sidney Farber, is a globally recognized leader in cancer treatment and research, located in Boston, Massachusetts. Known for its dedication to providing exceptional care for both adults and children, Dana-Farber is at the forefront of innovative therapies and cutting-edge cancer research. It is home to a diverse and highly skilled team, including over 5,000 staff members—comprising clinicians, researchers, and support personnel—who work together to advance the Institute’s mission to provide the best care and create the cures of tomorrow.
The Institute manages more than 640,000 outpatient visits annually and oversees 1,000+ hospital discharges each year. Dana-Farber is also actively engaged in over 1,100 ongoing clinical trials, demonstrating its commitment to not only treating cancer patients but also discovering groundbreaking treatment options that can shape the future of oncology.
As of 2023, Dana-Farber is ranked as the #4 cancer hospital globally, a testament to its exceptional clinical care, comprehensive patient services, and its leadership in cancer research. One of its most notable achievements is the development of Gleevec, a revolutionary drug for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), which marked a major breakthrough in targeted cancer therapies. Beyond treatment, Dana-Farber is also focused on enhancing the well-being of the broader community, offering resources and support for cancer patients and their families. With its combination of world-class clinical care, groundbreaking research, and community involvement, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute remains a leader in the fight against cancer.
Here are the top 10 of the 2024 Forbes list of America’s Top 100 Charities
- Feeding America
- Good 360
- St. Jude Children’s Research Institute
- United Way Worldwide
- Direct Relief
- Salvation Army
- Habitat for Humanity International
- Americares
- Goodwill Industries International
- Boys and Girls Clubs of America.