Overview
What is Building From Below?
Building From Below is a nonprofit organization situated in Durham, North Carolina. The organization is deeply committed to fostering sustainable, self-determining communities through research, education, and practical experimentation. Their primary base is an organic farm and learning center, where they build their vision for a democratic and egalitarian society. The farm produces affordable and healthy food, including vegetables, fruits, grains, and livestock, and plays a significant role in strengthening local agriculture through cooperative networks. Beyond agriculture, Building From Below offers educational programs for both youth and adults, serving as a hub for visitors and events. Their mission extends to investigating the shifting social and ecological landscape and developing practical alternative forms of organization, such as worker cooperatives, agro-ecological farming, and affordable, energy-efficient housing.
Official website here: www.buildingfrombelow.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Rating from Charity Navigator: 29% (Zero-Star out of Four Star rating)
Building From Below has received a low rating of 29% from Charity Navigator, indicating significant concerns regarding its financial accountability and transparency. The organization scores well in governance aspects, such as having a majority of independent board members and documenting board meeting minutes. However, it has critical deficiencies in financial reporting, as it has failed to provide necessary financial statements, which has severely impacted its overall score.
On the positive side, the nonprofit shows a commitment to independent governance with 100% independent board members. They also maintain a low material diversion of assets, reflecting a degree of responsible stewardship. Nevertheless, the lack of essential policies, such as conflict of interest and whistleblower protections, raises questions about the organization's operational integrity and accountability.
The financial metrics are particularly concerning, with a high liabilities to assets ratio and a program expense ratio indicating that a significant portion of funding is not being directed towards programs. Overall, while Building From Below has strengths in governance, its financial practices and transparency standards need substantial improvement for better performance and trustworthiness.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.
Is Building From Below legitimate?
Building From Below is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Building From Below 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: $0
Professional Fundraising Fees: $183
Other Salaries and Wages: $145,802
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.buildingfrombelow.org
What is the mission statement of Building From Below?
Building From Below is committed to research, education, and practical experimentation, aiming to foster the development of sustainable, self-determining communities. Their work is rooted in an organic farm and learning center, where they envision a democratic, egalitarian, and sustainable society. By investigating shifting social and ecological landscapes, they develop practical alternatives such as worker cooperatives, agro-ecological farming, and affordable, energy-efficient housing. Their mission is to support the creation of communities that promote self-determination and sustainability.
Official website here: www.buildingfrombelow.org
What is the revenue of Building From Below?
Building From Below's revenue in 2023 was $172,958.
Official website here: www.buildingfrombelow.org
Who are the executives of Building From Below and what are their salaries?
Here are 3 key members and their salaries:
- Compensation: $33,800
- Related: $0
- Other: $0
- Compensation: $13,673
- Related: $0
- Other: $0
- Compensation: $0
- Related: $0
- Other: $0
Official website here: www.buildingfrombelow.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Building From Below?
Building From Below's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.buildingfrombelow.org
Learn more at the official website: www.buildingfrombelow.org
Mission Statement of Building From Below
Building From Below is committed to research, education, and practical experimentation, aiming to foster the creation of sustainable, self-determining communities. Their work is rooted in an organic farm and learning center, serving as a platform to envision and build a democratic, egalitarian, and sustainable society. By investigating the evolving social and ecological landscape, Building From Below develops practical alternatives such as worker cooperatives, agro-ecological farming, and affordable, energy-efficient housing. Their mission is to support communities in finding self-sufficient and equitable solutions, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable society.
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Impact
October, 2024
Building From Below significantly impacts communities by fostering sustainable, self-determining environments through research, education, and practical experimentation. Its organic farm serves not only as a source of healthy, affordable food, including vegetables, fruits, grains, and livestock, but also as a community hub that encourages cooperation and participation.
Through educational programs tailored for both youth and adults, it empowers individuals with knowledge and skills in agro-ecology and cooperative organization, promoting a sense of ownership and responsibility towards local agriculture. By embracing democratic and egalitarian principles, Building From Below actively contributes to strengthening local agricultural networks, enhancing food security, and advocating for affordable energy-efficient housing solutions.
Moreover, by investigating the ecological and social landscape, it develops and promotes alternative organizational forms, such as worker cooperatives. This multipronged approach not only meets immediate community needs but also inspires broader systemic change, positioning Building From Below as a catalyst for sustainable community development and resilience.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Building From Below. 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.
Other financial information:
This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2023.
- Investment Income: $6,169
- Program Service Revenue: $141,707
- Gross Receipts: $172,958
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $2,540,681
- Total Liabilities: $58,850
- Net Assets: $2,481,831
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
HOUSING INCOME
Revenue
$106,239
FARM INCOME
Revenue
$35,316
EDUCATION INCOME
Revenue
$152
Organization Details
Founding Year
2005
Principal Officer
Vivian Wang
Website
www.buildingfrombelow.orgNTEE Category
Code: B99 - Education
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