Overview
What is Beyond Differences?
Beyond Differences is a nonprofit organization based in San Rafael, California, founded in 2010 by Laura Talmus and Ace Smith in memory of their daughter Lili Rachel Smith. The organization's mission is to inspire students across the nation to eradicate social isolation in middle schools and establish a culture of belonging for everyone. With over 9,000 schools participating nationwide, Beyond Differences has impacted more than 4.5 million students in all 50 states through its social-emotional learning curriculum, Positive Prevention Initiatives (No One Eats Alone, Know Your Classmates, and Be Kind Online), professional development for educators, and a national teen board that fosters youth leadership. The organization's model emphasizes the power of students influencing their peers as a means to change school culture and provides a transformative opportunity for young people to take control of this issue. Beyond Differences' work reaches out to middle schoolers, helping them feel less isolated and fostering a sense of belonging.
Official website here: www.beyonddifferences.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Charity Navigator Rating: 94% (Four-Star out of Four Stars)
Beyond Differences is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing social isolation among middle school students through empowering teen leadership. With a notable four-star rating from Charity Navigator, it excels in accountability and finance, demonstrating strong financial health and transparency. The organization boasts a fully independent board and consistently collects and utilizes feedback from constituents, indicating a high level of engagement and responsiveness to the needs of the community it serves.
User reviews highlight the impactful programs like "No One Eats Alone" and "Be The One," which focus on fostering inclusive environments in schools. Many testimonials reflect a transformative experience for both students and their families, emphasizing the positive changes in social dynamics and personal growth influenced by the organization's initiatives. Reviewers commend the enthusiasm and dedication of the teen leaders, reinforcing the belief that young voices can drive significant social change and awareness.
While the organization has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, the focus on middle school students may limit its reach in addressing social isolation on broader educational levels. Nevertheless, the commitment to cultivating empathetic leaders and creating supportive school cultures is evident, positioning Beyond Differences as a vital player in the fight against bullying and isolation in contemporary education settings.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator and Great Nonprofits.
What do the Facebook reviews say about Beyond Differences?
88% of 84 reviewers on Facebook recommend Beyond Differences. Here is a summary of their reviews:
Many users appreciate the organization's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and working with diverse groups. One reviewer noted that Beyond Differences keeps them engaged and aware of different perspectives, highlighting the effectiveness of their programs in encouraging understanding and collaboration among participants.
Overall, the sentiment leans positively, with individuals valuing the initiatives undertaken by Beyond Differences. Supporters are enthusiastic about the impact of the organization's work and express confidence in its mission to promote inclusivity among various communities.
This AI summary has been generated from reviews found on Facebook.
Is Beyond Differences legitimate?
Beyond Differences is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Beyond Differences 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: $175,600
Professional Fundraising Fees: $170,158
Other Salaries and Wages: $1,176,263
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.beyonddifferences.org
What is the mission statement of Beyond Differences?
Beyond Differences, a renowned organization, aims to inspire students in middle schools nationwide to put an end to social isolation and establish a culture of belonging for everyone. Established in 2010, the organization has become a leading expert in addressing social isolation among middle schoolers. Its mission serves as the driving force behind its student-led social justice movement, which has influenced over 4.5 million students in all 50 states. Beyond Differences offers various programs, including its social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and professional development for educators, to promote a sense of belonging and connection among students. The organization's national teen board, comprised of high school students, models the importance of connection and belonging, inspiring middle school youth to embrace these values as well.
Official website here: www.beyonddifferences.org
What is the revenue of Beyond Differences?
Beyond Differences's revenue in 2024 was $2,836,368.
Official website here: www.beyonddifferences.org
Who are the executives of Beyond Differences and what are their salaries?
The average compensation at Beyond Differences during 2024 was $56,328. There are 24 employees and 76 volunteers at Beyond Differences.
Here are 21 key members and their salaries:
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- Other: $600
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Official website here: www.beyonddifferences.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Beyond Differences?
Beyond Differences's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2024 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.beyonddifferences.org
Learn more at the official website: www.beyonddifferences.org
Mission Statement of Beyond Differences
Beyond Differences, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to inspiring change among middle school students across the nation. Their mission is centered around ending social isolation and fostering a culture of belonging for every student. Founded in honor of Lili Rachel Smith, who tragically passed away in 2009, Beyond Differences has since become a leading authority on social isolation among middle school students. Since its inception in 2010, the organization has impacted over 4.5 million students in all 50 states, with more than 9,000 schools utilizing their programs.
Beyond Differences' approach relies on the belief that students influencing other students is an effective means of changing school culture. They offer a social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum through their Positive Prevention Initiatives, including No One Eats Alone, Know Your Classmates, and Be Kind Online. These initiatives aim to combat social isolation and promote a sense of belonging among middle school students. Beyond Differences also provides professional development for educators, equipping them with the tools to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Furthermore, the organization boasts a national high school teen board, which models the power of connection and belonging, inspiring middle school students to believe in its potential.
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Impact
October, 2024
Beyond Differences has made a significant impact on students and school environments across the United States by addressing social isolation and fostering a culture of belonging. Since its inception in 2010, the organization has reached over 4.5 million students in more than 9,000 schools nationwide.
The approach is rooted in empowering students to lead the charge against isolation, with initiatives like "No One Eats Alone," "Know Your Classmates," and "Be Kind Online" promoting social-emotional learning. These programs encourage students to engage with one another, understanding the importance of inclusivity and kindness in their everyday interactions.
The ripple effect generated by Beyond Differences has not only transformed individual experiences but also reshaped school cultures, contributing to environments where students feel accepted and valued. By developing leadership among peers through its national teen board, the organization inspires middle school youth to recognize their capacity to impact their communities positively.
Overall, Beyond Differences cultivates a generation of empathetic individuals who are committed to ending social isolation and nurturing a sense of belonging, thereby breaking down barriers and building connections among peers.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Beyond Differences. 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 2024.
- Investment Income: $48,845
- Gross Receipts: $2,934,011
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $2,494,389
- Total Liabilities: $121,169
- Net Assets: $2,373,220
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Organization Details
Founding Year
2010
Principal Officer
Wade Rakes
Website
www.beyonddifferences.orgNTEE Category
Code: B90 - Education
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