Overview
What is Upward Unlimited?
Upward Unlimited, formerly known as Upward Sports, is a non-denominational Christian sports ministry based in Spartanburg, South Carolina. They partner with churches to deliver sports programs for children from kindergarten through high school. With a mission to promote the discovery of Jesus through sports, Upward Unlimited leverages the universal language of sports as a platform for sharing the gospel and expanding community impact. Their offerings include sports leagues, camps, and clinics, which reached over 201,000 young athletes during the 2022 fiscal year in collaboration with nearly 1,900 churches. Upward Unlimited's values include integrity, collaboration, excellence, innovation, and joy. The organization's 94 employees facilitate youth and adult programming at the Upward Star Center, a 120,000 square-foot indoor/outdoor multi-sports complex.
Official website here: www.upward.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Rating from Charity Navigator: 96% (Four-Star out of Four Star rating)
Upward Unlimited has received an impressive Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, with a strong emphasis on its accountability and financial management. The organization excels in various metrics, achieving a 100% score for having an entirely independent board and demonstrating effective oversight with its financial statements. With a program expense ratio of 70.16%, it shows a commitment to utilizing the majority of its resources towards its mission-driven programs.
The charity's governance structure is particularly noteworthy, featuring a solid representation of independent board members, which enhances its operational transparency. Additionally, Upward Unlimited has implemented key policies such as conflict of interest and whistleblower protections, indicating a strong ethical framework. The organization has also maintained a low liabilities to assets ratio, showcasing financial stability.
While the rating highlights several strengths, it is crucial for potential donors and stakeholders to continue monitoring the nonprofit's activities and impact over time. Overall, Upward Unlimited stands out as a financially sound organization dedicated to its mission, backed by robust governance practices.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.
Is Upward Unlimited legitimate?
Upward Unlimited is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Upward Unlimited 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: $354,907
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $2,968,254
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.upward.org
What is the mission statement of Upward Unlimited?
Upward Sports, the world's largest provider of Christian youth athletics, is on a mission to promote the discovery of Jesus through sports. They offer comprehensive resources to help churches organize and execute top-tier sports programs. Upheld by values of integrity, collaboration, excellence, innovation, and joy, Upward Sports aims to go beyond just games, using sports as a platform to inspire spiritual growth. Through its partnership with churches, Upward Sports creates a positive and inclusive environment for children to learn essential life skills and strengthen their faith.
Official website here: www.upward.org
Who is the CEO of Upward Unlimited?
Kevin Drake is the Executive Director of Upward Unlimited.
Official website here: www.upward.org
What is the revenue of Upward Unlimited?
Upward Unlimited's revenue in 2022 was $21,946,822.
Official website here: www.upward.org
Who are the executives of Upward Unlimited and what are their salaries?
The average compensation at Upward Unlimited during 2022 was $35,353. There are 94 employees and 6 volunteers at Upward Unlimited.
Here are 12 key members and their salaries:
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- Compensation: $186,283
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- Other: $24,216
- Compensation: $33,460
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- Compensation: $102,911
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- Compensation: $101,499
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- Other: $23,387
- Compensation: $117,944
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- Other: $11,254
- Compensation: $115,450
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- Other: $1,079
Official website here: www.upward.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Upward Unlimited?
Upward Unlimited's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.upward.org
Learn more at the official website: www.upward.org
Mission Statement of Upward Unlimited
Upward Unlimited, a prominent non-denominational Christian sports ministry, collaborates with churches to deliver engaging athletic programs for children. This mission-driven organization, renowned as the world's largest provider of Christian youth athletics, is committed to promoting the discovery of Jesus through sports.
Upward Sports, as Upward Unlimited is also known, offers a wealth of resources to facilitate the planning, training, and execution of top-tier, organized sports initiatives. The values that guide Upward Unlimited's operations include integrity, collaboration, excellence, innovation, and joy. These principles are reflected in the meticulously planned and detailed sports offerings designed to enrich the lives of young participants.
The mission of Upward Unlimited extends beyond the realm of sports, as it aims to create a nurturing environment where children can grow spiritually, emotionally, and physically. By partnering with churches, Upward Unlimited fosters a strong community connection, ensuring a supportive network for families and children alike. The organization's commitment to its core values and mission resonates with its extensive impact on the lives of countless children, inspiring them to explore their potential and embrace the teachings of Jesus.
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Impact
October, 2024
Upward Unlimited significantly influences youth development through its focus on combining sports with spiritual growth. By partnering with nearly 1,900 churches, it creates a widespread network that reaches over 201,750 young athletes annually. The organization uses the universal appeal of sports to foster community engagement and promote the teachings of Jesus, enabling children to discover faith in a dynamic, relatable environment.
The Upward Star Center, a 120,000 square-foot multi-sports complex, further amplifies this impact by hosting various programs for both youth and adults, serving over 2,000 participants each year. Through meticulously organized leagues, camps, and clinics, Upward Unlimited ensures that athletes receive high-quality training and resources, all while nurturing values such as integrity, teamwork, and joy.
This approach not only develops athletic skills but also instills character and faith, shaping well-rounded individuals who are equipped to positively influence their communities. By leveraging sports as a platform for spiritual and personal growth, Upward Unlimited cultivates a generation of young leaders grounded in Christian principles.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Upward Unlimited. 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: $90,656
- Program Service Revenue: $675,026
- Gross Receipts: $29,008,968
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $35,641,784
- Total Liabilities: $1,730,205
- Net Assets: $33,911,579
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
Upward Star Center
Revenue
$675,026
Organization Details
Founding Year
1995
Phone
(864) 949-5700Principal Officer
Kevin Drake
Main Address
198 White Star Point, Spartanburg, SC, 29301
Website
www.upward.orgNTEE Category
Code: O55 - Youth development
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