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Friends Of The Zoo Inc

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

EIN: 581661267 ✦ Chattanooga, TN ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Friends Of The Zoo Inc?

Friends of the Zoo Inc, located at 301 North Holtzclaw Avenue in Chattanooga, Tennessee (37404), is a dedicated nonprofit organization. With a workforce of 134 employees, they prioritize the support of Chattanooga Zoo's operations. Their mission enriches the lives of locals and visitors by promoting education and enjoyment through the zoo.


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 96% (Four-Star out of Four Stars)

Friends Of The Zoo Inc has achieved an impressive Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting a strong commitment to accountability and finance. The charity’s score is based entirely on its financial practices, where it scored exceptionally well across various metrics, including having a fully independent board of directors and a very low liability to assets ratio.

Strengths of Friends Of The Zoo Inc include its transparent financial practices, as evidenced by its complete conflict of interest and whistleblower policies, as well as the inclusion of meeting minutes on its website. The organization also allocates a significant portion of its expenses—over 80%—directly to program-related efforts, indicating a focused mission on its core activities.

While the rating highlights strong governance and effective financial oversight, the summary does not provide specific information regarding program outcomes or community impact. Thus, while the financial health is commendable, potential supporters may want to look for additional information regarding the charity's effectiveness in achieving its mission.


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

Is Friends Of The Zoo Inc legitimate?

Friends Of The Zoo Inc is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Friends Of The Zoo 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: $87,988
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $2,082,956

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

What is the mission statement of Friends Of The Zoo Inc?

Friends of the Zoo Inc is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the operations of a zoo, promoting education and entertainment for individuals in various communities. The mission of Friends of the Zoo Inc is to enhance the zoo experience for both local residents and visitors by contributing to its successful operation. The organization's primary goal is to ensure the zoo thrives as an essential resource for learning and enjoyment. Through this support, Friends of the Zoo Inc fosters a deeper connection with wildlife and nature, providing valuable opportunities for individuals to broaden their horizons and engage in meaningful experiences.


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

Who is the CEO of Friends Of The Zoo Inc?

Pete Lapina is the Board Of Director of Friends Of The Zoo Inc.


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

What is the revenue of Friends Of The Zoo Inc?

Friends Of The Zoo Inc's revenue in 2023 was $6,704,754.


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

Who are the executives of Friends Of The Zoo Inc and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Friends Of The Zoo Inc during 2023 was $16,201. There are 134 employees and 980 volunteers at Friends Of The Zoo Inc.


Here are 16 key members and their salaries:


Chanda Chambers (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Pete Lapina (President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Bob Stewart (Vice President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sharon Brooks (Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Chris Anderson (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Shirley Krause (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Emerson Brown (Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Karla Mckamey (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tom Eddy (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Arie Veltenaar (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Darde Long (Zoo Director)
  • Compensation: $87,988
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
William Decosimo (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jay Robinson (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Andy Stone (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Lawrence Edwards (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Niraj Shah (Board Of Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Friends Of The Zoo Inc?

Friends Of The Zoo Inc's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.chattzoo.org

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

Mission Statement of Friends Of The Zoo Inc

Friends of the Zoo Inc, a dedicated nonprofit organization, plays a significant role in supporting the operations of a zoo in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The mission of this esteemed group is to provide education and entertainment for local residents and tourists through the zoo. By doing so, Friends of the Zoo contributes to the enrichment of the community and fosters a connection with the natural world.

Friends of the Zoo's primary objective is to ensure the zoo's continued success and growth. Through their unwavering commitment and support, they enable the zoo to provide a unique and engaging experience for all who visit. The zoo offers visitors an opportunity to learn about various animal species and the importance of conservation efforts. Furthermore, it serves as an essential educational resource for schools and community groups, instilling in children and adults alike a deep appreciation for the natural world.

The zoo's success is a testament to Friends of the Zoo's unwavering dedication. Their efforts extend beyond the zoo's gates, as they work to make the educational and entertaining experiences accessible to a broad audience. The organization's initiatives create a sense of community and foster a deeper connection between individuals and the natural world. As a result, Friends of the Zoo plays a vital role in enriching the lives of those in Chattanooga and beyond.

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Impact




October, 2024

Friends Of The Zoo Inc plays a crucial role in enhancing the operations of the Chattanooga Zoo, significantly contributing to both education and enjoyment for the local community and visitors. By supporting the zoo, they help facilitate engaging experiences that foster a deeper understanding of wildlife and conservation efforts. This initiative enriches the lives of individuals in Chattanooga and its visitors, creating opportunities for learning and appreciation of animals in a safe and enjoyable environment. The organization's commitment to these goals not only benefits the zoo's operations but also strengthens community ties and promotes environmental awareness through its programs and activities.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Friends Of The Zoo 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.

Revenue
$6,704,754 (2023)
Expenses
$5,759,016 (2023)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2023.

  • Investment Income: $46,583
  • Program Service Revenue: $4,121,750
  • Gross Receipts: $6,704,754

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $5,768,375
  • Total Liabilities: $495,252
  • Net Assets: $5,273,123

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Programs

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

ZOO PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

Revenue

$4,121,750

Organization Details

Founding Year

1985

Principal Officer

Pete Lapina

Main Address

301 NORTH HOLTZCLAW AVENUE, CHATTANOOGA, TN, 37404

NTEE Category

Code: D115 - Animals

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