Overview
What is Springfield Telescope Makers Inc?
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc. is a nonprofit organization situated in Springfield, Vermont. Their primary mission is to serve as an educational institution, focusing on the field of optics and mechanics, specifically as they pertain to telescopes. They maintain a museum to preserve the rich history of amateur telescope design and conduct various educational forums throughout the year. The organization's annual event, the Stellafane Convention, is a significant highlight. This gathering features exhibitions of homemade telescopes, lectures on telescope technology, and a competition for the title of "Best Optical & Mechanical Telescope." The convention takes place near the end of July, closest to the new moon.
Official website here: www.stellafane.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Charity Navigator Rating: 36%
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc has received a low rating of 36%, resulting in a Zero-Star out of Four Star rating, which indicates significant concerns regarding its accountability and financial practices. The organization scores well in some areas, such as having a fully independent board and a lack of material diversion of assets. However, it falls short in critical policies and transparency, notably lacking a conflict of interest policy, whistleblower policy, and proper document retention practices.
The program expense ratio stands at 45.14%, which suggests that less than half of its expenditures are allocated to its programs. This raises questions about the efficiency of fund usage in fulfilling its mission. Additionally, the organization has not posted its tax form on its website, further limiting public transparency and accountability.
Overall, while Springfield Telescope Makers Inc has a solid foundation with independent board governance, the lack of essential policies and transparency measures contributes to its low score. These issues need to be addressed to improve its standing and ensure the effective use of resources.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.
Is Springfield Telescope Makers Inc legitimate?
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Springfield Telescope Makers Inc 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: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $0
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.stellafane.org
What is the mission statement of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc?
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc, functioning as an educational institution, is committed to preserving and disseminating knowledge in the realm of optics and mechanics, particularly in relation to telescopes. The organization maintains a museum to safeguard the history of amateur telescope design and hosts educational forums annually. Its mission encompasses archiving and teaching the intricacies of telescope manufacturing, serving as a platform for both historical preservation and contemporary learning.
Official website here: www.stellafane.org
Who is the CEO of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc?
Glenn Jackson is the President of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc.
Official website here: www.stellafane.org
What is the revenue of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc?
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc's revenue in 2022 was $83,927.
Official website here: www.stellafane.org
Who are the executives of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc and what are their salaries?
There 110 volunteers at Springfield Telescope Makers Inc.
Here are 7 key members and their salaries:
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Official website here: www.stellafane.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Springfield Telescope Makers Inc?
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.stellafane.org
Learn more at the official website: www.stellafane.org
Mission Statement of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc, serving as an educational institution, is committed to preserving and disseminating knowledge in the realm of optics and mechanics, particularly as they pertain to telescopes. The organization fulfills this mission by running a museum that showcases the historical evolution of amateur telescope design. Additionally, Springfield Telescope Makers Inc hosts educational forums throughout the year, providing a platform for individuals to share their expertise and innovations in the field of telescope making.
One of the organization's most notable events is the annual Stellafane Convention. This forum brings together telescope enthusiasts, featuring exhibits displaying telescopes constructed by attendees. The convention also includes lectures on the scientific and technological aspects of telescopes, as well as a judged competition to determine the "Best Optical & Mechanical Telescope." By hosting this event, Springfield Telescope Makers Inc fosters a community of telescope makers and encourages the continuous advancements in the field.
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Impact
October, 2024
Springfield Telescope Makers Inc significantly contributes to the fields of optics and mechanics through education and preservation of amateur telescope design. Its primary educational initiatives focus on imparting knowledge about telescope construction and operation, thus fostering a community of enthusiasts and professionals. The annual Stellafane Convention serves as a cornerstone event, showcasing handcrafted telescopes, offering lectures on scientific advancements, and promoting innovation in telescope making through competitions.
By operating a museum dedicated to the history of amateur telescope design, the organization enriches cultural understanding and appreciation of this craft. Educational forums throughout the year further engage the community, encouraging collaboration and sharing of expertise. The combined efforts of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc not only advance the technical skills of individuals interested in astronomy but also cultivate a vibrant community centered around exploration and discovery in the field.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Springfield Telescope Makers Inc. 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 2022.
- Investment Income: $707
- Program Service Revenue: $45,858
- Gross Receipts: $90,874
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $632,632
- Total Liabilities: $0
- Net Assets: $632,632
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
Stellafane Convention
Revenue
$44,808
Telescope Educational Classes
Revenue
$1,050
Organization Details
Founding Year
1927
Phone
(802) 885-3779Principal Officer
Glenn Jackson
Main Address
PO Box 601, Springfield, VT, 05156
Website
www.stellafane.orgNTEE Category
Code: A030 - Arts
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