Overview
What is F I R S T?
FIRST, situated in Asheville, North Carolina, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. They offer a range of programs and advocacy initiatives aimed at promoting healthy, inclusive, and self-determined lives. One of their key services involves billing Medicaid for Community Based Rehabilitative Services (CBRS) through the Children Developmental Services Agency (CDSA), which they provide to families with children aged between birth and three years, utilizing experts in developmental disabilities, autism, and social emotional strategies. FIRST's Sunshine Project, funded since 2006 through a contract with Buncombe Partnership for Children, provides successful interventions to childcare center staff and parents, supporting over 80 children and serving 50 Early Childcare Centers' classrooms. This project employs evidence-based strategies to ensure inclusive environments for children with disabilities.
Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Charity Navigator rating: 81% (Three-Star out of Four Stars)
F I R S T has received a Three-Star rating from Charity Navigator, indicating a solid level of accountability and finance management. The organization scored particularly well in various areas such as having a fully independent board and no material diversion of assets. With a program expense ratio of 93.20%, it demonstrates a strong commitment to directing resources towards its mission.
User feedback on Great Nonprofits highlights the positive impact F I R S T has on individuals and communities, particularly in relation to its services for differently-abled individuals. Reviewers praise the organization’s leadership and its ability to relate to the experiences of the families it supports. The feedback underscores a strong community presence and the effectiveness of staff members who are described as empathetic and knowledgeable.
While the ratings and reviews are generally favorable, further evaluations of the organization's outreach and specific program effectiveness could provide a more comprehensive view of its overall impact. Nonetheless, the current feedback reflects a strong reputation and dedication to community engagement.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator and Great Nonprofits.
What do the Facebook reviews say about F I R S T?
94% of 12 reviewers on Facebook recommend this charity. Here is a summary of their reviews:
Many parents express deep appreciation for the support provided by F I R S T, highlighting the significant impact the organization has had on their lives, particularly in navigating educational challenges related to autism. A common theme is the empowerment that comes from the guidance offered, with users noting how the staff helps them advocate for their children effectively.
Overall, those involved with F I R S T feel grateful for the invaluable resources and support they receive, indicating that the nonprofit genuinely enhances their ability to face the complexities of raising children on the spectrum. The positive sentiment is clear, with many feeling supported and understood during challenging times.
This AI summary has been generated from reviews found on Facebook.
Is F I R S T legitimate?
F I R S T is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. F I R S T 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: $53,525
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $1,575,784
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
What is the mission statement of F I R S T?
FIRST, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families, aims to promote healthy, inclusive, and self-determined lives for these individuals. Through their programs and advocacy efforts, they strive to foster an environment that empowers individuals with disabilities to live independently and make their own decisions.
One of their key initiatives is Early Intervention Services, which involve billing Medicaid for Community Based Rehabilitative Services provided by trained professionals. During the year, 15 families benefited from these services. Another notable program is The Sunshine Project, a preschool inclusion program that has been running since 2006. This project supports children with disabilities and their families by providing successful interventions to childcare center staff and parents. In 202X, The Sunshine Project assisted 84 children and served 50 Early Childcare Centers.
Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
Who is the CEO of F I R S T?
Janet Price-Ferrell is the Executive Director of F I R S T.
Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
What is the revenue of F I R S T?
F I R S T's revenue in 2022 was $2,351,252.
Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
Who are the executives of F I R S T and what are their salaries?
The average compensation at F I R S T during 2022 was $15,227. There are 107 employees and 10 volunteers at F I R S T.
Here are 10 key members and their salaries:
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Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
Where can I find the form 990 for F I R S T?
F I R S T's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.firstwnc.org
Learn more at the official website: www.firstwnc.org
Mission Statement of F I R S T
FIRST, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families, aims to foster healthy, inclusive, and self-determined lives for its beneficiaries. By providing programs and advocacy, FIRST aspires to empower these individuals to live independently and with dignity. The organization's mission is multifaceted, encompassing early intervention services and inclusion initiatives for children with developmental disabilities and autism.
Through its partnership with the Children Developmental Services Agency (CDSA), FIRST bills Medicaid for Community Based Rehabilitative Services (CBRS). These services, delivered by contract employees with specialized knowledge in developmental disabilities, autism, and social emotional strategies, cater to children from birth to three years. FIRST served fifteen families during this period, demonstrating its commitment to supporting young individuals with disabilities and their families.
Additionally, FIRST is involved in The Sunshine Project, a preschool inclusion program funded by Buncombe Partnership for Children since 2006. This initiative aims to provide successful interventions to childcare center staff and parents, utilizing evidence-based strategies. By supporting 84 children aged between birth and five years and serving 50 Early Childcare Center classrooms, FIRST is able to reach a substantial number of children, equipping both children and their caregivers with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges associated with developmental disabilities. In doing so, FIRST plays a vital role in fostering inclusive environments and promoting self-determination for children with disabilities.
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Impact
July, 2024
F I R S T's impact can be seen through its provision of programs and advocacy that supports individuals with disabilities and their families in fostering healthy, inclusive, and self-determined lives. Through initiatives like early intervention services and the Sunshine Project, F I R S T has directly impacted numerous children and families in the Asheville area. By offering services like Community Based Rehabilitative Services (CBRS) and preschool inclusion programs, F I R S T has positively influenced the lives of individuals with disabilities, as well as childcare center staff and parents. This organization's work contributes to creating a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with disabilities in North Carolina.
This information is meant to be a general summary of F I R S T. 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: $190
- Program Service Revenue: $1,986,454
- Gross Receipts: $2,351,252
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $804,206
- Total Liabilities: $29,025
- Net Assets: $775,181
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
Services to Families w Autistic/Dev Disabled
Revenue
$1,986,454
Organization Details
Founding Year
2001
Phone
(828) 277-1315Principal Officer
Janet Price-Ferrell
Main Address
PO Box 802, Asheville, NC, 28802
Website
www.firstwnc.orgNTEE Category
Code: P82 - Human services
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