Quick charity verification for Lantern Community Services Inc (EIN: 133910692)
Verdict: Lantern Community Services Inc appears trustworthy
92/100Mission Score
$47.3MRevenue
$29.4MAssets
1Red Flags
5Strengths
Red Flags
Unusually low reported liabilities relative to assets in some periods, which might warrant further investigation into asset composition or funding sources.
Strengths
Exceptional revenue growth over the past decade, indicating strong support and expanding operations.
Consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation, demonstrating a high commitment to mission-focused spending and transparency.
Healthy asset growth, from $3.2 million in 2014 to $26.5 million in 2023, enhancing financial stability.
Efficient expense management, with expenses consistently aligned with revenue.
Positive net assets, indicating financial health and sustainability.
Spending Breakdown
How Lantern Community Services Inc allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
88%
Program Spending
Healthy — majority goes to mission
7%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
5%
Fundraising
Within typical range
How to read this: Well-run charities typically spend 75% or more on programs, keep admin under 25%, and fundraising under 15%. A high program ratio means more of every dollar goes directly to the mission.
How to Interpret This Report
What Red Flags Mean
Red flags are potential warning signs identified by AI analysis of IRS 990 filings. They may indicate issues like declining revenue, high executive pay relative to program spending, lack of transparency, or governance concerns. A single red flag does not necessarily mean an organization is untrustworthy, but multiple flags warrant further investigation before donating.
What Mission Score Measures
The Mission Score (0-100) evaluates how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated purpose. It combines multiple factors: program spending efficiency (how much goes to programs vs. overhead), financial health and sustainability, governance quality, transparency in reporting, and consistency of operations over time. A score of 70+ indicates strong alignment with the organization’s mission.
Using This Data for Donation Decisions
Use this report as one input in your decision. Look at the overall Mission Score for a quick assessment, review red flags and strengths for specific concerns, check the spending breakdown to see where money goes, and compare executive compensation to the organization’s size. Consider viewing the full transparency report for deeper analysis, and always verify tax-exempt status with the IRS before making large donations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lantern Community Services Inc
Is Lantern Community Services Inc a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Lantern Community Services Inc (EIN: 133910692) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 92/100. 1 red flag identified, 5 strengths noted.
Is Lantern Community Services Inc a good charity to donate to?
Lantern Community Services Inc has a Mission Score of 92/100. Revenue: $47.3M. Assets: $29.4M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Lantern Community Services Inc?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Lantern Community Services Inc is 133910692. This is the unique tax ID assigned by the IRS.
What is a Mission Score?
The Mission Score is a 0-100 rating that measures how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated mission. It factors in program spending efficiency, financial transparency, governance practices, and outcome reporting. Scores above 70 indicate strong mission alignment, 40-69 suggest mixed performance, and below 40 signals potential concerns.
How does Lantern Community Services Inc spend its money?
Lantern Community Services Inc allocates 88% to programs, 7% to administration, and 5% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Lantern Community Services Inc's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Lantern Community Services Inc's tax-exempt status using EIN 133910692 on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. You can also request copies of their Form 990 directly from the organization, as they are required by law to provide them upon request.
AI Transparency Report
Lantern Community Services Inc demonstrates strong financial health and growth, with revenue increasing significantly from $14.6 million in 2014 to over $47.3 million in 2023. The organization consistently manages its expenses close to its revenue, indicating efficient use of funds for its programs. For instance, in 2023, expenses were $46,365,785 against revenues of $47,384,655, resulting in a modest surplus that contributes to asset growth. This growth in assets, from $3.2 million in 2014 to $26.5 million in 2023, suggests a healthy accumulation of resources to support its mission.
The organization's spending efficiency appears robust, with a high proportion of expenses likely directed towards program services, given the nature of its NTEE code (L21 - Housing/Shelter). The consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation across all available filings is a notable indicator of transparency and a commitment to directing funds towards beneficiaries rather than executive salaries. This practice enhances public trust and suggests a strong focus on mission delivery.
Overall, Lantern Community Services Inc exhibits a positive financial trajectory, responsible expense management, and a commendable level of transparency regarding executive compensation. Its ability to scale operations while maintaining tight control over expenses and growing its asset base points to a well-managed and financially sound nonprofit.