nonprofit logo

Film Independent

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

EIN: 953943485 ✦ Los angeles, CA ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

Shop smarter and support your favorite cause at the same time! With the Give Freely browser extension, you'll automatically save money with coupons, and partner stores will donate to your chosen charity - at no extra cost to you. Start giving back with a single click. It's safe, free, and spam-free, guaranteed!

Overview

What is Film Independent?

Film Independent is a thriving open-access membership organization based in Los Angeles, California, with over 8,000 members in the US and 54 countries. Their mission is to champion creative independence in visual storytelling and foster a culture of inclusion. Through their extensive educational and film programming, they offer a variety of resources for filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike. Film Independent organizes numerous screening series, hosting 190 unique events per year and catering to an audience of 33,841. They also present the Directors Close-Up, which features conversations with top filmmakers, both in person and online. Additionally, Film Independent hosts the Forum, a conference for independent producers, and provides year-round classes and workshops, offering free and paid programs on various topics. Their goal is to support independent filmmakers and promote independent filmmaking to the public. With a team of 92 employees, Film Independent continues to make a significant impact on the film industry and inspire creatives around the world.


Official website here: www.filmindependent.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating 94%

Film Independent has received a Four-Star out of Four Star rating from Charity Navigator, indicating a high level of accountability and financial health. The organization excels in many areas, such as having a fully independent board and strong oversight committees. Its program expenses are notably high, reflecting a commitment to directly supporting its mission, while its fundraising efficiency remains impressive, making it a reliable choice for donors.

User feedback highlights a generally positive experience for volunteers, with many praising the supportive environment and the opportunities to engage with the arts community. Volunteers often express a sense of fulfillment and appreciation for the organization, particularly during major events like the Spirit Awards and the LA Film Festival. Many reviews emphasize the rewarding nature of volunteering, and the valuable connections made through the organization.

However, there are some criticisms regarding the treatment of volunteers at events. A few reviews indicate feelings of exploitation and mention a lack of perks compared to previous years. Complaints surfaced about inadequate food provisions during events and a perceived lack of recognition for the efforts of volunteers. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many individuals valuing their experiences and the organization's mission.


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

Is Film Independent legitimate?

Film Independent is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Film Independent 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: $508,464
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $4,202,768

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.filmindependent.org

What is the mission statement of Film Independent?

Film Independent is a membership organization dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers and promoting independent filmmaking to the public. Its mission is to champion creative independence in visual storytelling and foster a culture of inclusion. The organization serves a global community of artists and audiences who embody diversity, innovation, curiosity, and uniqueness of vision. With over 8,000 members in 2022 from 50 states and 54 countries, Film Independent offers educational and film programming through various events, conversations, conferences, and year-round classes and workshops, catering to filmmakers and film lovers alike. These initiatives provide opportunities for learning, networking, and growth within the film industry.


Official website here: www.filmindependent.org

What is the revenue of Film Independent?

Film Independent's revenue in 2023 was $19,440,991.


Official website here: www.filmindependent.org

Who are the executives of Film Independent and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Film Independent during 2023 was $52,935. There are 89 employees and 37 volunteers at Film Independent.

Here are 36 key members and their salaries:


Brenda Robinson (Board Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Brenda Gilbert (Vice Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Ed Rada (Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Andrea Sperling (Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Vondie Curtis-Hall (Executive Committee Member-At-Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Eric D'Arbeloff (Executive Committee Member-At-Large)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Len Amato (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Randy Barbato (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Adriene Bowles (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mathew Cullen (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Rhys Ernst (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Javier Fuentes-Leon (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Matthew Greenfield (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Michael Helfant (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Laura Kim (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sue Kroll (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Karyn Kusama (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Kasi Lemmons (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
David Linde (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mynette Louie (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Alix Madigan-Yorkin (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Ted Mundorff (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Gail Mutrux (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sue Naegle (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Col Needham (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Catherine Park (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Alan Poul (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Cathy Schulman (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jeffrey Soros (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Josh Welsh (President)
  • Compensation: $303,194
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $26,310
Valecia Phillips (Director Of Finance And Operations)
  • Compensation: $165,132
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $12,010
Kathryn Walker (Senior Director Of Development)
  • Compensation: $169,686
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $19,379
Maria Bozzi-Rahamad (Senior Director Of Education And International Ini)
  • Compensation: $155,182
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $12,939
Aline Loustaunau (Director Of Marketing)
  • Compensation: $133,174
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $17,400
Shawn Davis (Executive Producer, Spirit Awards)
  • Compensation: $125,211
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $8,820
Monique Coleman (Senior Director Of Human Resources & Administratio)
  • Compensation: $124,008
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $19,321


Official website here: www.filmindependent.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Film Independent?

Film Independent's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.filmindependent.org

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

Mission Statement of Film Independent

Film Independent is a dynamic organization that champions creative independence in visual storytelling and fosters a culture of inclusion for artists and audiences around the world. With a global community embracing diversity, innovation, curiosity, and uniqueness of vision, Film Independent's mission is to support independent filmmakers and promote their work to the public.

This open-access membership organization, with over 8,000 members in 2022 across 50 states and 54 countries, offers a rich array of educational and film programming. Film Independent's extensive offerings include screening series, which present 190 unique events annually, engaging audiences with a diverse range of independent film and reaching an audience of 33,841. Through the Directors Close-Up program, Film Independent facilitates conversations with the year's top filmmakers, both in person and online, inviting audiences behind the scenes of the creative process. The Film Independent Forum serves as a platform for working independent producers to explore the business side of filmmaking. Additionally, the organization provides year-round classes and workshops, offering free and paid programs on various topics of interest to filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike.

Shop smarter and support your favorite cause with the Give Freely browser extension. Save money with coupons and donate to charity with a single click. Download now!

Impact




October, 2024

Film Independent has significantly impacted the landscape of independent filmmaking by providing essential support and resources to filmmakers and promoting their work to the public. With a membership base of over 8,185 members from all 50 states and 54 countries, it fosters a vibrant community that champions creative independence in visual storytelling.

Through robust educational programs and engaging film screenings, Film Independent creates platforms for both emerging and seasoned filmmakers. Their Screening Series, consisting of 190 unique events, attracted nearly 34,000 audience members, facilitating valuable connections between filmmakers and audiences.

The organization also hosts events like The Directors Close-Up, where top filmmakers share insights into their craft, enriching the knowledge of participants. The Film Independent Forum offers a vital space for independent producers to explore the business side of filmmaking, ensuring that creatives are equipped to navigate the industry effectively.

Year-round classes and workshops provide tailored learning experiences for filmmakers and film enthusiasts, covering numerous topics of interest both in-person and online. This commitment to education fosters a culture of inclusion and encourages diverse perspectives within the filmmaking community, ultimately enriching the cinematic landscape.

In essence, Film Independent plays a crucial role in nurturing talent, advocating for artistic diversity, and ensuring that independent films reach broader audiences.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Film Independent. 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
$19,440,991 (2023)
Expenses
$18,955,082 (2023)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

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

  • Investment Income: $68,239
  • Program Service Revenue: $6,489,810
  • Gross Receipts: $19,440,991

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $6,642,446
  • Total Liabilities: $1,755,503
  • Net Assets: $4,886,943

Want to help this charity, for free? You can click here to learn more about Give Freely

Programs

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

PROGRAM FEES & SPONSORSHIPS

Revenue

$3,112,927

SPIRIT AWARDS

Revenue

$2,361,361

MEMBERSHIP FEES

Revenue

$1,015,522

Organization Details

Founding Year

1984

Principal Officer

Joshua Welsh

NTEE Category

Code: A310 - Arts

If you are a representative of Film Independent and wish to learn more about how Give Freely can help you raise funds, please click here: https://givefreely.com/nonprofits/. Our services are offered at no cost to your organization.