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Polaris Project

Learn about this cause: What are the reviews? Is it Legit? Do I like the mission? What is the CEO's salary?

EIN: 030391561 ✦ Washington, DC ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Polaris Project?

The Polaris Project is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization committed to combating human trafficking in the United States. They operate the National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH), funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Trafficking in Persons, and private donations. This essential hotline offers 24/7 support to victims and survivors of human trafficking, providing access to vital resources and services, available in over 200 languages across five communication modes - phone, chat, text, webform, and email. Polaris' mission is to put an end to sex and labor trafficking while restoring freedom to survivors. Their team, consisting of 197 employees, is dedicated to this noble cause.

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 80% (Three-Star out of Four Stars)

Polaris Project demonstrates a solid commitment to combating human trafficking, reflected in its high Leadership & Adaptability score of 100. The organization maintains strong financial oversight, with a majority of independent board members and no material diversion of assets. However, the Program Expense Ratio of 69.62% shows that a considerable portion of funds is dedicated to program delivery, which some reviewers compare unfavorably to other organizations, raising concerns about administrative expenses.

User feedback highlights a mix of perspectives, with many praising Polaris for its educational efforts and effective response to human trafficking. Supporters appreciate the organization's innovative approaches and the comprehensive resources it provides, including a national hotline. Conversely, some former donors express dissatisfaction, particularly concerning perceived political motivations overshadowing the core mission, which has led to critical reviews reflecting a dip in trust for some.

Overall, while Polaris Project is recognized for its impactful work and strong organizational practices, it faces challenges in maintaining donor trust amid criticisms of administrative spending and political engagement, which may affect ongoing support from segments of its donor base.


This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator and Great Nonprofits.

Is Polaris Project legitimate?

Polaris Project is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Polaris Project submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.


Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:

Executive Compensation: $1,286,946
Professional Fundraising Fees: $424,519
Other Salaries and Wages: $8,607,244

For more financial information, click here

What is the mission statement of Polaris Project?

The Polaris Project is committed to putting an end to sex and labor trafficking and helping survivors regain their freedom. Through their efforts, they operate the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline. Funded by both the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Trafficking in Persons, and private donations, the hotline offers essential support and services to victims and survivors of human trafficking. Accessible in over 200 languages across five communication modes, the hotline is available 24/7 to provide help and ensure the safety of those in need.

Who is the CEO of Polaris Project?

Catherine Chen is the CEO of Polaris Project The CEO's salary of Polaris Project is $267,333 and their total compensation is $288,213.

What is the revenue of Polaris Project?

Polaris Project's revenue in 2023 was $10,212,332.

Who are the executives of Polaris Project and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Polaris Project during 2023 was $60,701. There are 163 employees and 12 volunteers at Polaris Project.

Here are 22 key members and their salaries (Polaris Project's CEO's salary is $267,333 and their total compensation is $288,213):


Catherine Chen (Executive Director & Ceo)
  • Compensation: $267,333
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $20,880
Caren Benjamin (Chief Communications Officer)
  • Compensation: $157,272
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $11,942
Michelle Nicholson (Chief People Officer)
  • Compensation: $183,412
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $17,524
Alfonso Wright (Chief Financial Officer)
  • Compensation: $195,653
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $8,940
Patrick Mcintyre (Chief Development Officer)
  • Compensation: $191,672
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $17,854
Jennifer Jinks (Chief Strategy & Impact Officer)
  • Compensation: $189,997
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $24,467
Margo Kelly (Director Of Foundation Relations)
  • Compensation: $133,905
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $23,256
Damon Gorham (Director Of Tech Operations)
  • Compensation: $138,427
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $26,999
Sara Woldehanna (Director, Learning Innovation & Data Systems)
  • Compensation: $128,104
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $33,821
Megan Cutter (National Hotline Director)
  • Compensation: $137,015
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $14,135
Jean Gilbert (Board Chairperson)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Liz Kiehner (Board Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Maria Gollayan (Board Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Roy Austin (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jessica Herrera-Flanigan (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Susan Coppedge (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Boris Gartner (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tanya Gould (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sangeeta Naik (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Angel Nguyen Swift (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Frederick Reynolds (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sarah Takatani (Board Member)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Where can I find the form 990 for Polaris Project?

Polaris Project's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.

Mission Statement of Polaris Project

Polaris Project, a leading organization, is committed to eradicating sex and labor trafficking in the United States and helping survivors regain their freedom. Through their unwavering mission, they strive to put an end to this heinous crime and provide essential support to those who have been victimized.

The heart of Polaris Project's work lies in their operation of the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH). Funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Trafficking in Persons, and private donations, this vital service offers 24/7 access to critical assistance for victims and survivors of human trafficking. Polaris Project's hotline is available in over 200 languages and across five modes of communication, ensuring help is always within reach. This comprehensive support includes essential services and resources that enable victims to stay safe and get the help they need.

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Impact




October, 2024

Polaris Project plays a crucial role in the fight against sex and labor trafficking, making significant strides toward restoring freedom for survivors. One of its most impactful initiatives is the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH), which operates around the clock, offering critical support and resources to victims and survivors.

By providing access to help in more than 200 languages and through multiple communication channels—including phone, chat, text, webform, and email—the hotline ensures that individuals in crisis have a means to reach out for assistance, no matter where they are or their situation. It acts as a lifeline, connecting survivors to essential services that can aid in their recovery and help them regain control over their lives.

The ongoing operation of the NHTH, supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and private donations, underscores Polaris Project's commitment to raising awareness about trafficking and providing tangible resources to those affected. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to the broader goal of ending human trafficking in all its forms, marking a significant impact at both national and international levels.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Polaris Project. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.


Financials

This financial information is from Propublica.

Revenue
$10,212,332 (2023)
Expenses
$14,954,213 (2023)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2023.

  • Investment Income: $125,445
  • Gross Receipts: $10,212,332

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $17,393,440
  • Total Liabilities: $10,516,403
  • Net Assets: $6,877,037

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Organization Details

Founding Year

2002

Principal Officer

Alfonso Wright

NTEE Category

Code: Q70 - International

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