From cognitive impairment and physical disability to old age and homelessness, millions of adults around the world are considered vulnerable. These individuals rely either partially or completely on others for care but also deserve to live with dignity and autonomy. Fortunately, organizations around the world remain dedicated to supporting vulnerable adults, promoting economic opportunity, independent living, and respect. So we had to ask: What are the best charities for vulnerable adults?

Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in children. And, leukemia is the most common form of childhood cancer, with up to 4,000 children diagnosed each year in the US alone. While several risk factors increase a child’s likelihood of diagnosis, the exact cause of childhood leukemia remains unknown. Fortunately, research, awareness, and advocacy efforts by charities have led to improved treatment outcomes for children battling leukemia, but the search for a cure continues. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that combat childhood leukemia?

From intimate partner violence and child abuse to human trafficking, millions of people around the world experience abuse each year. In the US alone, over 12 million cases of intimate partner abuse are documented each year and over 30% of women reported impaired functioning as a result. Furthermore, the cycle of abuse often spans generations, with about 30% of abused or neglected children becoming abusive parents and 66% becoming abused spouses or partners. Fortunately, organizations around the world assist victims in escaping and overcoming abuse to break this cycle. So we had to ask: What are the best charities for abuse victims?

Under certain circumstances, small oceanic disturbances can develop into catastrophic hurricanes. And, while certain aspects can be anticipated, like the storm’s general path, the extent of the destruction isn’t as predictable. For example, most hurricane-related deaths are caused by sudden storm surges and flooding. Moreover, hurricanes cause billions of dollars worth of damage each year, which is especially devastating for already vulnerable communities in hurricane-prone areas. Fortunately, organizations are helping communities to prepare and recover from hurricanes. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that provide hurricane relief?

In the US alone, about 750,000 pregnancies occur in women under the age of 20 each year. Among low and middle-income countries globally, that number is close to 21 million. Regardless of where they live, young mothers face a host of challenges compared to their older counterparts, including increased risks of homelessness, maternal and infant mortality, and depression. Fortunately, organizations around the world are working to ensure that young mothers have the resources they need to thrive. So, we had to ask: what are the best charities that support young mothers?

In the US alone, 1 in 5 students will be bullied in school and about 160,000 students skip school every day due to the threat of being bullied. However, bullying isn’t limited to youth and schools; 35% of adults also experience bullying in the workplace. Moreover, the consequences of bullying can range from self-esteem issues and diminished performance to escalated violence and suicide. Fortunately, organizations around the world are working to put a stop to bullying once and for all. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that fight against bullying?

Over 70% of adults in the US alone, have experienced some form of trauma. For some people, emotional responses to traumatic events will resolve over time. But for others, those emotional responses linger, impacting their ability to function, damaging their relationships, and exacerbating their depression. Fortunately, organizations around the world are helping traumatized individuals heal and move past their experiences. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that support trauma victims?

In the US each year, 1 in 6 youth under the age of 17 will experience a mental health disorder, and 75% of all lifetime mental health conditions present before the age of 24. Identifying symptoms and seeking treatment early can mitigate the negative impact of mental health conditions. However, the majority of the US faces a shortage of child and teen psychiatrists; only about 14 providers are available per 100,000 children. And, with suicide ranking as the 2nd leading cause of death for children ages 10-14, the situation is dire. So we had to ask: What are the best charities for youth mental health?

The people of Gaza have endured decades of violence and insecurity since the Arab-Israeli War in 1948. The situation worsened on October 7, 2023, when the Islamic militant group Hamas attacked Israel, sparking a war that resulted in devastating conditions for Gaza. Shockingly, 1 in 25 people have been injured or killed, with the looming threat of mass famine and the rapid spread of disease in overcrowded shelters adding to the humanitarian crisis. Fortunately, organizations are mobilizing to assist civilians in Gaza and are already planning strategies to rebuild what has been lost. So, we had to ask: What are the best charities impacting Gaza?

In the US alone, an estimated 2 million people face the devastating shock of a cancer diagnosis annually. Beyond the primary concern of survival, there are practical considerations, such as the average cost of medical care and drug expenses, which amounts to a staggering $42,000 in the first year on average. Moreover, many cancer patients face isolation, depression, and anxiety throughout their cancer journeys. Fortunately, charities around the world are working to reduce the burden of a cancer diagnosis and support patients. So, we had to ask: What are the best charities that support cancer patients?

In 2024, there will be around 2 million new cases of cancer in the US. Moreover, an estimated 611,720 people- about 1,680 per day- will die from the disease. Though the statistics are concerning, charities around the world are actively combating cancer through research aimed at enhancing the prevention, detection, and treatment of various cancers, as well as improving the quality of life for those battling the disease. So, we had to ask: what are the best charities that advance cancer research?