Charities wouldn't be able, financially, to pay for the type of publicity and exposure celebrities bring to a cause, Miniutti said.

CNN: Telethon tries to raise 'Hope for Haiti'

Sandra Miniutti, vice president of the charity evaluation organization Charity Navigator, said the relationship between charities and stars is mutually beneficial.

CNN: Telethon tries to raise 'Hope for Haiti'

In the case of Haiti, Miniutti said she believes the devastating images and stories are having a profound effect on the public.

CNN: Telethon tries to raise 'Hope for Haiti'