Ten of the best charity and non-profit websites

A great website is a huge asset for charities and non-profits, and that’s because it presents the public face of the organisation to millions of potential online visitors.

But what makes a great charity website? It should be effective at encouraging donations and support, certainly, but the best websites goes far beyond digital fundraising. The best allow the organization to establish a strong brand image, often using moving success stories and powerful photography and videos to showcase their work.

They can also offer educational resources, provide information and support to the those they seek to help, and host an online community for those involved with the charity. Here are ten that excel in some or all of these endeavours: 

SSAFA: Local content

This website seeks to broaden the armed forces charity’s reach and raise more funds. SSAFA branches are largely independent, but the website includes a "microsite" function enabling local volunteers to update their own pages with local news and information about their activities.

Rethink Mental Illness: Easy information access

In response to strong demand, Rethink Mental Illness’s website offers quick and easy access to vital information and support for people experiencing a mental health crisis. The non-profit’s site is also optimised for smart phone access so that confidential information remains protected.

WWF: Outstanding photography

WWF’s mission is to conserve nature, and its website uses stunning wildlife images to enthuse visitors and educate them about current campaigns and activities. The website also offers information about specific species and places that visitors may be interested in.

Children International: Razor-sharp focus

Children’s website is focused on one key proposition - sponsoring a child in need. It does this highly effectively by explaining why sponsoring is necessary and how sponsoring works, and by offering a search facility for visitors to find a child to sponsor in seconds.

Battersea: Simplicity

The animal rehoming charity’s website works because it keeps things simple. Aside from prominent orange "Rehome" and "Donate" buttons, it’s all about dogs and cats: information for people considering adopting one, and photos and profiles of pets "waiting to be loved."