As the holiday season approaches, we’re deeply aware that generosity comes in many forms—and that you have countless choices when deciding where to give. Whether you choose to support Aya or another organization close to your heart, we believe thoughtful giving is a powerful act, and we’re grateful you take the time to consider where your support goes.
When we think about intentional giving, a few guiding questions come to mind—questions we ask ourselves as much as we hope donors will ask of any organization they support:
What do they stand for?
Beyond a mission statement, an organization’s core values shape every decision it makes. We encourage donors to look closely and ask whether those values truly align with their own.
Are they evidence-based?
Transparency matters. Meaningful work should be paired with honest reflection and measurable outcomes—not just surface-level storytelling.
How are beneficiaries portrayed?
The way stories are told matters. We believe fundraising should never come at the expense of dignity. It’s worth asking whether an organization relies on emotional exploitation—or whether it honors the humanity of the people it serves.
At Aya, we strive to walk what we call The Aya Way: preserving the dignity and humanity of our scholars while balancing that commitment with transparency and accountability. This is not something we take lightly—it’s a responsibility we feel deeply.
To everyone who supports our work, challenges us to do better, or simply takes the time to give intentionally—thank you. Your trust means everything to us, and we are grateful to be worthy of it.