1. What is the need for / value of rating NGOs? (conceptual reasons as well as from your personal experiences i.e. in case they were rated, how would it have helped you?)
With the low expectations from the general public for the integrity of NGOs, because of the amount of foreign and Indian funds invested and the tremendous temptation to those involved in the NGOs to use the funds for their own personal gain, for the corruption integral to the lives of everyone in Mumbai and beyond…if it will benefit them…there is a huge need to rate NGOs and keep their affairs transparent and honor those who do operate with integrity.
2. On what different criteria should / can NGOs / nonprofits / charities / trusts be rated?
Financial accountability, benefit to the community, organizational structure…
3. Who should rate them? i.e. backgrounds of such organisations or individuals
Volunteers from corporate financial world, perhaps volunteers from high profile, reputable international NGOs with no connection with local NGOs being rated.
4. Which NGOs in your (subjective) opinion are outstanding ones in Mumbai? Don’t have too much contact with NGOs in Mumbai, but know Aseema in Bandra, helping children in the city and doing an outstanding work there.
Dilbur Parakh
icesmumbai@vsnl.net
icesmumbai@vsnl.net