One that accepts food donations. Years ago there was a big scandal at a local chapter of the Salvation Army, the CEO was funneling monetary contributions meant to assist the poor to his own private account. Since then I'm leery about giving money to charities. Also many years ago I used to go on vacation to Atlantic City New Jersey around the holidays, and located homeless individuals on the boardwalk in which to buy them meals from local vendors.

I’m heavily involved at my local level in the schools. I raise tens of thousands for my sons schools. Our annual color run is tomorrow, it will raise $8000.

I also fund raise and volunteer at a local women’s shelter.

Yes to your second question but it does beg the question as to why they haven't registered as a non-profit. Or do you mean direct gifts to individuals? I occasionally do that under certain circumstances. My favorite charity is kiva.org. They facilitate direct lender to lendee loans. You get to chose to whom you lend. They pay you back and then you relend the money. It's a pretty great system.

Regularly. I don't donate for tax purposes.