3 people found this review helpful
Review from CharityNavigator Covenant House
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December 3, 2012
3 people found this review helpful
Ideals are great. Especially when you're over compensated for them. $301,387 Kevin Ryan President
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When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
April 1, 2012
8 people found this review helpful
I work hard for my money and like to see that it is used for the reason I donate. I think the Covenant House concept is wonderful...we don't do enough to help our "throw away" children. However, I cannot donate to a charity where the two top people make over 500K total. Is this necesary? I donate to NJ Special Olympics. The Head make 150K. This is a good salary but reasonable....Why does Covenant house have to have TWO people making this kind of money. Why two people. Seems very over the top to me...I bet it didn't start out this way. I did get unsolicited mailings with a book. The book was very moving so I wanted to donate and see where my money would go. I don't think it would touch these children since these two people have to get paid their over-the-top salary. It's unfortunate.
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Was your donation impactful?
No
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
Unlikely
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
Unlikely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
January 25, 2012
2 people found this review helpful
The work that Covenant House does in Latin America is hands-down the best work I've seen done with street children anywhere in the world. In Honduras they serve more homeless kids than the government, and they NEVER shut their doors. Who else in the world takes on the expense of being completely funded by individuals (thus the high fundraising costs) so that they have the flexibility to do this? No one. It's so much easier to accept grants and shut your doors when you reach your expected results or when the grant ends, but Covenant House has a real commitment to these kids. Stunning work, I promise you. Keep it up, Kevin Ryan & team, and keep those doors open.
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How does this organization compare with others in the same sector?
Very Well
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
Will you recommend this organization to others?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
1 person found this review helpful
November 26, 2011
1 person found this review helpful
Covenant House first touched my heart when I was still just a child myself. The organization's philosophy that all children deserve "absolute respect and unconditional love" is not only correct, but has been proven effective in rescuing tens of thousands of homeless children and young adults. Covenant House does not just give out charity, it gives a path to self sufficiency. Its success has been proven, there are business owners and doctors working today that once lived at Covenant House. Covenant House provides a clear, attainable and permanent escape from life on the street.
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Was your donation impactful?
Definitely
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
Definitely
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
November 26, 2011
I have never served on a Board before and I was lucky to have been asked to join the Covenant House team 2 years ago. I am constantly inspired by the pure HEART of this organization. From the youth they serve to the staff who work with the youth every day to the administrative team who keeps CH running, I have never seen a group so committed to serving their mission and so willing to change when it is necessary. The youth come first here. They have saved so many lives, they are a home to those without. I feel blessed to be a part of the family...
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
As a board member, volunteer, through the testimonials of youth (and adults) whose lives have been changed for the better because of Covenant House.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
We need more beds, outreach vans and more funding to serve the many kids in need.
November 1, 2011
I agree with Gretchen - I try NOT to donate to people who send unsolicited "stuff" - no matter how good the quality might be. However, I was impressed by their cover letter - well written and to the point and not so much a maudlin plea that often accompanies icky pictures of animals or people in terrible conditions.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
have not experienced it
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
have no idea
September 29, 2011
6 people found this review helpful
Okay, I'm glad to see that Cov. House does such good work, but I can't support an organization that sends me, unsolicited, a package containing x-mas cards with envelopes, a pen, address labels, x-mas stickers, and a little paper gift bag. These items cost money and waste resources, and are clearly aimed at making me feel obliged to reciprocate, in cash. I send thousands of dollars to charities every year, and I am especially interested in operations, like Covenant House, that deal directly with persons in need. But I feel more comfortable supporting organizations that solicit donations in a straightforward manner. Address labels and other gimmicks are just that -- gimmicks; a worthwhile cause should speak for itself.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I received a package soliciting donations.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Use fundraising solicitations as an opportunity to show prospective donors the importance of Covenant House, its successes, and its need for funds. Discontinue the practice of mailing address labels and other items.
November 30, 2010
I heard about CoHo in the 80s and was impressed by the talk. Over the years I came to visit the program, attend events and go to the Vigil. I heard some of the kids in the program. They needed a helping hand and they found it here - when their families were unable to provide.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
hearing the kids who are in the shelter.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
expand to more cities.
November 30, 2010
I've been to several events where Covenant House "kids" spoke and was so impressed with their desire to build on the hope and strength Covenant House has provided. Covenant House has taken in so many kids that would have died untimely deaths or would have grown in to adults without hope.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I've seen the residents perform at a fundraising event.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I don't have expertise in the field of rehabilitating kids so I cannot offer advice here.
1 person found this review helpful
November 30, 2010
1 person found this review helpful
Covenant House is an excellent organization working with disadvantaged youths throughout North and Central America. I got to know it very well when I was a volunteer for their NINE-LINE - a hotline for youths at risk -(800-999-9999). Definitely, a donation worthy organization.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
By working on their Hotline, the NINE-LINE
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Nothing
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