For many of us, donating to worthy causes during the holidays is a significant part of the season.

Research shows almost 25 percent of annual giving takes place between now and year end. Nonprofits rely on year-end donations, making our generosity all the more important. But how do we choose where to donate?

From bells ringing in storefronts to giving trees, galas, mailbox appeals, #GivingTuesday (which takes place today worldwide), and phone requests, we are confronted with options. Here are some suggestions for cutting through the noise to make sound decisions: