DECATUR- If you're on facebook, you've probably seen people talking about the 30 minute-long KONY 2012 video this week.

The video's appeal is emotional.  The message is clear: stop Joseph Kony, the leader of an army of child soldiers in Central Africa.   

But some viewers look past these images and criticize invisible children the non-profit behind the video.  Charity Navigator rates invisible children 45 out of a hundred for transparency and accountability. The company explains the grassroots organization's executive board is too small.

Others question their spending on travel, salaries and programs.

Invisible Children released a response saying they spend 80 percent on their programs, 16 percent on management, and 3 percent on fundraising.

Others blast the non-profit for supporting the Ugandan army.   To which they responded: "none of the money donated ever goes to the government in Uganda."

And though some say they're oversimplifying a complex issue, the state department has given the video their nod of approval.

"This YouTube video helps to increase awareness and increase support for the work that governments are doing, including our own government--that can only help all of us," said State Department Official Victoria Nuland.

But whether you believe the critics or the supporters you can't deny invisible children has started a powerful conversation. It's just like with any organization.  Do your research first, look at Guidestar dot org.Take a look at the financials yourself and go to invisible children's webpage.

We've added links to both of them on our website.