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First Story

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

EIN: 911755886 ✦ Bend, OR ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is First Story?

First Story is a nonprofit organization situated in Bend, Oregon. Their primary mission is to provide affordable housing solutions for lower-income families, defined as those below 80% of the area median income. They accomplish this by offering 30-year, interest-free, and no-down-payment home loans. Furthermore, First Story extends financial aid to low-income individuals, those in need, and at-risk youth. Additionally, they offer support for housing/shelter services, hunger relief, emergency aid, and aid to other organizations that align with their mission. Their efforts aim to uplift and empower the community by addressing various socio-economic challenges.


Official website here: www.firststory.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 81%, Three-Star out of Four Star Rating from Charity Navigator.

First Story has achieved an 81% rating, reflecting a solid performance in its accountability and finance. The charity benefits from a fully independent board, which contributes to effective governance. It demonstrates strong financial health, with a low liabilities to assets ratio and a high program expense ratio, indicating that a significant portion of its resources is directed towards its mission.

Despite these strengths, there is a notable limitation in the form of a missing whistleblower policy, which could affect transparency and accountability. While the charity's financial practices appear sound, the absence of this policy may raise concerns for potential donors looking for robust governance measures. Overall, First Story showcases commendable financial management but may need to enhance its governance policies for improved trustworthiness.


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

What do the Facebook reviews say about First Story?

92% of the 14 reviewers on Facebook recommend First Story. Here is a summary of their insights:

While many appear to support the mission and efforts of the organization, there is a notable cautionary sentiment from at least one reviewer. This individual suggests that potential participants and donors should thoroughly investigate the organization's practices, indicating concerns about transparency and the treatment of individuals involved. The mention of participants being viewed primarily as tax deductions raises questions about the nonprofit's approach to its beneficiaries.

Overall, the nonprofit seems to have a solid base of supporters who appreciate its work, but it would benefit from addressing concerns around participant treatment to foster further trust and confidence within the community.


This AI summary has been generated from reviews found on Facebook.

Is First Story legitimate?

First Story is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. First Story 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: $0
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $0

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.firststory.org

What is the mission statement of First Story?

First Story's mission is centered around providing affordable housing solutions to lower-income families, defined as those earning below 80% of the area median income. They accomplish this by offering 30-year, zero-interest, and zero-down home loans. Beyond housing, First Story also extends financial aid to low-income individuals, persons in need, and at-risk youth. Additionally, they provide funding for various social services such as housing/shelter services, hunger relief, emergency aid, and support to organizations aligned with their mission.


Official website here: www.firststory.org

Who is the CEO of First Story?

Claire Duncan is the Executive Director of First Story.


Official website here: www.firststory.org

What is the revenue of First Story?

First Story's revenue in 2022 was $4,453,023.


Official website here: www.firststory.org

Who are the executives of First Story and what are their salaries?

There 250 volunteers at First Story.


Here are 13 key members and their salaries:


George Slape (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Levi Means (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Dennis Murphy (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tim Knopp (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Hayden Watson (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Scott Knox (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mathew Robinson (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Eric Taylor (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Alan Stewart (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Stephanie Alvstad (Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Caleb Anderson (President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Alicia Moore (Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Claire Duncan (Executive Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.firststory.org

Where can I find the form 990 for First Story?

First Story's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.firststory.org

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

Mission Statement of First Story

First Story, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions for lower-income families. Defined as individuals and families earning below 80% of the area median income, these families are the primary recipients of First Story's assistance. The organization offers a unique opportunity with a 30-year, zero-interest and zero-down home loan. In addition to housing support, First Story extends financial aid to low-income individuals, persons in need, and at-risk youth. The organization also supports various organizations aligned with its mission, providing funds for housing/shelter services, hunger relief, emergency aid, and other relevant initiatives. By doing so, First Story aims to contribute to the betterment of communities and the lives of numerous individuals in need.

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Impact




July, 2024

First Story's impact is substantial as it provides quality affordable housing through a 30-year, zero-interest, and zero-down home loan to lower-income families. In addition, it offers financial support to low-income individuals, persons in need, and at-risk youth. The organization also provides funding for housing/shelter services, hunger relief, emergency aid, and support to other organizations aligned with its mission. This comprehensive approach positively impacts the community by improving housing stability, alleviating hunger, and supporting vulnerable populations.




This information is meant to be a general summary of First Story. 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
$4,453,023 (2022)
Expenses
$2,465,872 (2022)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

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

  • Investment Income: $70,021
  • Program Service Revenue: $2,166,954
  • Gross Receipts: $5,872,347

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $19,966,948
  • Total Liabilities: $36,956
  • Net Assets: $19,929,992

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Programs

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

OTHER REAL ESTATE ACT

Revenue

$2,166,954

Organization Details

Founding Year

1998

Principal Officer

Claire Duncan

Main Address

963 SW Simpsone Ave 110, Bend, OR, 97702

NTEE Category

Code: L20 - Housing

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