Evidence can really help build confidence in that respect. That's why I personally would not donate (or more likely GiveWell would not recommend) if it wasn't for the feedback step at the end. Charities that record data on the effectiveness on of their intervention always get a lot of love from me.

Yes we are extremely lucky to have a network such as SITP here in the UK. Science, skepticism, a couple of pints and some excellent chat. What could be better! The Skeptics with a K podcast is our equivalent of The skeptics guide to the universe if you're ever looking for more content to fill your ears.