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Guided Discoveries Inc

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

EIN: 953285562 ✦ San clemente, CA ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Guided Discoveries Inc?

Guided Discoveries Inc, based in San Clemente, California, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children through distinctive learning experiences in science and adventure. With a team of 315 employees, they serve over 11,000 students annually through AstroCamp California, offering physical science, astronomy, and mountain adventure programs for schools and educational groups. During the school year, these groups attend for durations of three or five days. Additionally, individual campers join the AstroCamp Summer Adventure program for youth development, science exploration, and mountain adventures, along with social activities. Guided Discoveries' mission is to inspire children by providing them with one-of-a-kind educational opportunities in marine and physical science, and ocean and mountain adventure, reaching approximately 32,000 students yearly.


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

93% rating from Charity Navigator indicates that Guided Discoveries Inc is highly regarded for its effectiveness and transparency. The organization has earned a Four-Star out of Four Star rating, reflecting strong accountability and financial health, with an impressive score of 96 in Accountability & Finance. Their high Program Expense Ratio of 80.06% suggests a significant portion of funds is directed towards their programs, indicating a commitment to their mission.

Guided Discoveries Inc demonstrates exemplary leadership and community engagement, boasting perfect scores in Culture & Community, Leadership & Adaptability, and feedback processes. The organization also maintains a well-structured independent board, with 87% of board members being independent, which enhances governance and reduces conflicts of interest. Additionally, they have solid policies in place for audits, whistleblower protections, and asset management, reinforcing their operational integrity.

Despite its strengths, the Impact & Measurement score of 81 suggests there may be areas for improvement in demonstrating the long-term impact of their programs. Continuous evaluation and enhancement in this area could further solidify their effectiveness and community trust. Overall, Guided Discoveries Inc is positioned as a responsible and impactful nonprofit organization.


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

What do the Facebook reviews say about Guided Discoveries Inc?

With 4 reviews currently on Facebook, Guided Discoveries Inc has started to gather feedback from users. Here's a glimpse into what people are saying:

The reviews highlight the organization's commitment to quality in their programs and an impressive attention to detail, suggesting that participants have experienced unique and memorable activities. Users express enthusiasm about the one-of-a-kind experiences provided, reflecting positively on the nonprofit's offerings.

Overall, this early feedback indicates a promising start for Guided Discoveries Inc, showcasing a community that appreciates the thoughtful design of their services. Although specific ratings are yet to be established, the recommendations point to a strong potential for satisfaction among those involved.


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

Is Guided Discoveries Inc legitimate?

Guided Discoveries Inc is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Guided Discoveries 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: $325,545
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $5,109,439

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

What is the mission statement of Guided Discoveries Inc?

Guided Discoveries Inc is dedicated to making a positive impact on children's lives by offering unique opportunities for discovery in marine and physical science, as well as ocean and mountain adventures. Approximately 32,000 students benefit from their educational programs every year. The organization provides immersive experiences for schools and individuals, encouraging a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and fostering personal growth through adventure activities. At AstroCamp California alone, around 11,000 students attend each year, engaging in science programs, youth development, and social activities. Guided Discoveries fosters an atmosphere of exploration and learning, helping children expand their horizons and grow both intellectually and personally.


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

Who is the CEO of Guided Discoveries Inc?

Craig Turner is the Director of Guided Discoveries Inc.


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

What is the revenue of Guided Discoveries Inc?

Guided Discoveries Inc's revenue in 2022 was $15,426,303.


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

Who are the executives of Guided Discoveries Inc and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Guided Discoveries Inc during 2022 was $17,254. There are 315 employees at Guided Discoveries Inc.


Here are 14 key members and their salaries:


Ross Turner (Director)
  • Compensation: $319,886
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Craig Turner (Director Of Admin)
  • Compensation: $181,032
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $1,950
Matthew Mishalow (Finance Director)
  • Compensation: $151,011
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $10,550
David Work (Camp Director)
  • Compensation: $140,289
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $17,369
Andy Balendy (Astrocamp Director)
  • Compensation: $123,369
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $3,116
Paul Kupferman (Marketing Director)
  • Compensation: $108,610
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $12,716
Kristi Turner (Secty/Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $73,186
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Gerald Tambe (Board Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Steve Garrett (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Chuck Jones (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Brian Garrett (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jeremy Beck (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jennifer Baldocchi Esq (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Stephanie Vetterli (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Guided Discoveries Inc?

Guided Discoveries Inc's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.guideddiscoveries.org

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

Mission Statement of Guided Discoveries Inc

Guided Discoveries, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children through distinctive learning experiences in marine and physical science, as well as ocean and mountain adventures. With a mission to inspire and educate, Guided Discoveries provides engaging programs for around 32,000 students each year.

One of the primary offerings from Guided Discoveries is AstroCamp California. This program attracts approximately 11,000 students annually, with schools and educational groups attending for immersive three or five-day experiences during the academic year. Individual campers, in turn, join the AstroCamp Summer Adventure, where they delve into youth development, hands-on science exploration, and thrilling mountain adventures.

Guided Discoveries' educational initiatives go beyond the classroom, aiming to foster a deep connection with science and the natural world among children. By providing unique opportunities for discovery, this organization empowers the next generation to develop a stronger foundation in STEM subjects and an appreciation for the wonders of nature.

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Impact




October, 2024

Guided Discoveries Inc makes a significant impact by providing transformative educational experiences for approximately 32,000 students each year. Through its diverse range of programs in marine and physical sciences, as well as ocean and mountain adventures, it fosters a love for discovery and learning among children.

One of its flagship offerings, AstroCamp California, serves around 11,000 students annually, engaging them in hands-on activities related to physical science and astronomy. During three- or five-day visits, schools and educational groups immerse themselves in learning that combines science with outdoor adventure. In addition to school programs, Guided Discoveries also offers summer camp experiences, where individual campers enjoy a blend of youth development, scientific exploration, and social engagement in a nurturing environment.

Overall, Guided Discoveries Inc not only enriches children's understanding of science and the environment but also promotes personal growth and teamwork through experiential education.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Guided Discoveries 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
$15,426,303 (2022)
Expenses
$16,319,838 (2022)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

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

  • Investment Income: $504,649
  • Program Service Revenue: $14,496,743
  • Gross Receipts: $17,566,892

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $20,044,630
  • Total Liabilities: $10,995,087
  • Net Assets: $9,049,543

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Programs

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

TUITION PROGRAMS

Revenue

$14,496,743

Organization Details

Founding Year

1978

Principal Officer

Craig Turner

Main Address

302 NORTH EL CAMINO REAL 206, SAN CLEMENTE, CA, 92672

NTEE Category

Code: C60Z - Environment

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