Thanks, Cooper. The designation adds legitimacy to the organization. When you read post such as "know before you donate" (I got that email - glad it was pulled) it reminds us all that not all organizations or individuals asking for money are legit.
To get a 501c3 an organization has to provide its aritcles of incorporation, its bylaws and background info on all of its officers. This info is scrutinized and typically, and in the case of the CCHS, more info is requested. All of this done with the goal of vetting out organizations who exist solely for "self promotion or enhancement."
It is also importnant to note that this desigation should also help the CCHS become eligible for international assistance grants as many groups who give funds to organizations such as this use the 501c3 as a first cut to determine if the org will even be on the list to qualify for review. So it's a good step forward - and the post about fraudulent fund raising compelled me to add more info.