A newly launched watchdog group is revealing unsettling facts about how major veteran-focused charities are managing donor funds. Charities for Vets, founded by Richard Berman through the RAM Foundation, is calling out nonprofits that fail to direct sufficient resources toward actual veteran support, warning Americans that not all donations are helping those they claim to serve.
Charities for Vets uses official IRS filings and public data to assess organizations on several critical factors, including program spending, overhead, and transparency. What sets this group apart is its uncompromising evaluation system—if a charity fails in even one category, it earns a “not recommended” rating. This approach ensures that only groups genuinely committed to supporting veterans receive endorsements.
The impact has been immediate. Between 2022 and 2023, veteran charities flagged as “not recommended” saw donations drop by over 11%, equating to more than $125 million. In contrast, charities that earned the “recommended” or “highly recommended” labels saw significant boosts. Recommended organizations gained $23 million in donations, while the highest-rated nonprofits received an increase of $65 million. These shifts suggest that Americans are responding decisively when provided with clear, reliable information.
The watchdog is backed by a respected advisory board, including retired Marine Corps Colonel Pete Metzger and retired Navy Commander Kirk Lippold. Their involvement reflects a strong commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve. Metzger stressed the importance of informed giving, especially when countless veterans rely on these services for essential needs.
Charities for Vets offers its evaluations publicly and free of charge. There are no subscription walls, just clear data to guide donors toward more impactful giving. The organization operates entirely with volunteer support, using donations only to fund outreach and education. Its mission is to protect veterans and the Americans who support them, ensuring that every dollar counts.
