12.04.2008 - 03:02pm ET

(CSRwire) For the 10th year in a row, Forbes Magazine has recognized Medical Assistance Programs (MAP) International as one of the most efficient charities in America in its annual ranking of the nation's 200 largest charities. In its 2009 Investment Guide, Forbes gave MAP a 99 percent efficiency rating in terms of both charitable commitment and fundraising efficiency.

"MAP International has always been mindful of how we use contributions from our donors," said Michael Nyenhuis, president of MAP International. "We realize that our supporters trust us to use their contributions efficiently and effectively in order to bring health and hope to millions of people throughout the developing world. The Forbes ranking marks a decade of excellence in terms of MAP's ability to be wise stewards of our donations."

Forbes' "charitable commitment" rating calculates how much of a nonprofit's total expenses go directly to a charitable purpose, such as MAP's field programs in developing countries. The average for the 200 nonprofits was 85 percent, 14 percent lower than MAP's 99 percent rating.

"Fundraising efficiency" is an assessment of the amount of donated gifts left after subtracting the cost of obtaining them. The average for this year was 90 percent, nine points lower than MAP's 99 percent rating.

Forbes also looks at "donor dependency," which refers to the degree to which a nonprofit relies on donor dollars. Forbes gave MAP an 81 percent rating, which is 21 points higher than the average of 60 percent.

Since its founding in 1954, MAP International has endeavored to act with integrity, openness, honesty and accountability. In addition to recognitions from Forbes, MAP's fiscal responsibility has also been recognized by organizations, such as Charity Navigator, MinistryWatch and the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance.

As a nonprofit relief and development agency, each year MAP International delivers approximately $300 million in medicines and medical supplies to more than 115 countries. MAP also operates health clinics and community-based health education programs in countries affected by war, natural disaster, disease and poverty.

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