If you can’t be an adoptive parent, then consider giving to One Simple Wish (http://www.onesimplewish.org/) Orphans post their wishes and generous people donate to make them happen. It feels really good.
Or consider mentoring a teen in foster care/group home. I mentor a teen in care. Right now, I give her 60-90 minutes of my time once a week at the home. It’s positive, undivided attention for her.
Don't get me wrong, but I've become a sceptic of all charities and donations that claim go to the designees....There's always a group at the top who are cashing in on all these donations.