THON was named one of the most efficient charities by the American Institute for Philanthropy this week. In order be deemed “most highly efficient” 75% of the money raised by the charity must got to its cause.

THON surpasses this requirement by a large margin: 94.6% of proceeds go directly to the Four Diamonds Fund. (THON 2010 spent a bit over $400,000, but raised over $7.8 million.) On top of that, THON fundraising totals break records each year and have continued to rise during a recession when many charities saw drops in their donations.

So why is THON so efficient? Well, because of us, the volunteers. While many national charities do rely heavily on volunteers and couldn’t function without them, some do have paid positions and may also pay for set up, clean up, publicity, food, etc. THON runs entirely on volunteer power.

“THON owes so much of its success to the thousands of students who volunteer their time to organize, raise funds and contribute their time toward Four Diamonds children,” said PSU spokeswoman, Jill Shockey. In addition, THON committees are very contentious about the money they spend and how they can save. The surrounding community is also extremely supportive donating food and supplies other charities may have to purchase.

I’m sure this exciting news will only add to the momentum of the juggernaut that is THON and not add to the egos of those involved but rather push them out-do themselves next year FTK.

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