Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute

Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Garden

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

EIN: 237393204 ✦ Fort davis, TX ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute?

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, also known as the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Garden, is a nonprofit organization based in Fort Davis, Texas. With a staff of eight, including two full-time personnel and seasonal part-time staff, the Institute operates from a 507-acre site, offering a wide range of features for public education and appreciation of the Chihuahuan Desert region. The Nature Center boasts a 20-acre botanical and pollinator garden, a cactus house, over 5 miles of trails, a mining exhibit, a visitor center with a gift shop, and a bird blind. Annually, the Institute welcomes nearly 450 members and over 14,000 visitors, offering educational programs for children from Pre-K to 8th grade, as well as adult workshops and the Conant Lecture program. To support its mission, the Institute hosts two fundraiser events each year, with the Cookout & Auction being the principal source of funding. The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute aims to promote public awareness, appreciation, and concern for nature through education, the visitor experience, and the support of research.


Official website here: www.cdri.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

97% Rating from Charity Navigator

Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) has achieved a remarkable 97% score on Charity Navigator, earning it a Four-Star out of Four Star rating. This high score reflects the organization's exceptional accountability and finance practices, with a perfect score of 100% in this area. The independent board membership and the management of financial resources show strong governance, indicating that donations are used efficiently and transparently.

User reviews consistently highlight CDRI's strengths, particularly its educational programs and dedication to conservation. Visitors praise the well-maintained botanical gardens, unique cactus greenhouse, and extensive hiking trails, all contributing to an enriching experience for both locals and tourists. The staff and volunteers are noted for their friendliness and expertise, fostering a welcoming environment that enhances visitors' understanding of the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem.

While the organization excels in many areas, some feedback points to opportunities for improvement in equity strategies and policies. However, the overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect a strong community impact, emphasizing CDRI's role as a valuable resource for education and environmental stewardship in West Texas. Overall, CDRI stands out as a well-managed nonprofit dedicated to its mission and the local community.


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

Is Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute legitimate?

Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute 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: $60,800
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $106,015

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.cdri.org

What is the mission statement of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute?

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute is dedicated to fostering public understanding, admiration, and protection for nature, with a particular focus on the natural diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert region. This is achieved through various means, such as education, visitor experiences, and supporting research. The institute operates from a 507-acre site known as the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, featuring a botanical garden, cactus house, trails, exhibits, a visitor center, and more. They offer educational programs for students from Pre-K to 8th grade, as well as workshops and lectures for adults. Consistent with its mission, the institute also hosts fundraising events and employs staff and volunteers to help further its objectives.


Official website here: www.cdri.org

Who is the CEO of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute?

Lisa Gordon is the President of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute.


Official website here: www.cdri.org

What is the revenue of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute?

Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute's revenue in 2022 was $555,543.


Official website here: www.cdri.org

Who are the executives of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute during 2022 was $20,852. There are 8 employees and 50 volunteers at Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute.


Here are 14 key members and their salaries:


Jim Martinez (President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Anne Adams (Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Rick Herrman (Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tom Feuerbacher (Vice President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Reggie James (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Debbie Murphy (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Ed Pfiester (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Shirley Powell (Director Emeritus)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Victoria Lowe (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Chris Ritzi (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Lisa Gordon (Executive Director)
  • Compensation: $60,800
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tom Edens (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
John Pritchett (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Joe Williams (Member At Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.cdri.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute?

Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.cdri.org

Learn more at the official website: www.cdri.org

Mission Statement of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, a dedicated nonprofit organization, is committed to fostering public understanding, admiration, and concern for nature, with a particular focus on the diverse ecosystems of the Chihuahuan Desert region. Through education, visitor experiences, and research support, the Institute aims to inspire and engage people to appreciate and preserve the natural world.

Based at a 507-acre site known as the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, the Institute offers a variety of features including a 20-acre botanical and pollinator garden, a cactus house, over 5 miles of trails, a mining exhibit, a visitor center, and a bird blind. These facilities provide opportunities for exploration, learning, and enjoyment of the desert's unique flora and fauna.

The Institute extends its educational efforts to students from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade, offering free programs as part of Region 18's curriculum. Additionally, it hosts workshops for adults and the Conant Lecture program, both of which are free of admission fees. To support its mission, the Institute organizes two annual fundraising events: The Cactus & Succulent Sale and the Cookout & Auction, with the latter serving as its primary source of funding. The Institute employs a small team of full-time and part-time staff, supplemented by volunteer Host Campers throughout the year.

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Impact




July, 2024

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute has a significant impact on promoting public awareness, appreciation, and concern for the natural diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert region. Through its various programs and activities, including the operation of the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, educational programs for students and adults, workshops, lectures, and fundraising events, the institute engages with over 14,000 visitors annually.

By offering free educational programs for students from Pre-K through 8th grade and organizing events like the Cactus & Succulent Sale and the Cookout & Auction, the institute not only fosters a deeper connection to nature but also raises funds to support its mission. Additionally, the institute employs full-time and part-time staff, along with volunteers, to maintain the Nature Center and provide a valuable experience for visitors.

Overall, the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute plays a vital role in environmental conservation, education, and research, making a tangible impact on both the local community and beyond.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute. 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
$555,543 (2022)
Expenses
$324,523 (2022)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2022.

  • Investment Income: $65,545
  • Program Service Revenue: $49,834
  • Gross Receipts: $555,543

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $3,910,307
  • Total Liabilities: $12,986
  • Net Assets: $3,897,321

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Programs

Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.

Admission Fees

Revenue

$49,140

Program Income

Revenue

$694

Organization Details

Founding Year

1974

Principal Officer

Lisa Gordon

Main Address

PO Box 905, Fort Davis, TX, 79734

NTEE Category

Code: C60 - Environment

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