Quick charity verification for Nelson Dancona Foundation (EIN: 223172917)
Verdict: Nelson Dancona Foundation appears trustworthy
87/100Mission Score
$360KRevenue
$483KAssets
3Red Flags
1Strengths
Red Flags
The foundation's spending on fundraising is relatively high, which may indicate a need for more efficient fundraising strategies.
The consistent allocation of funds to programs suggests a strong commitment to its mission.
Administrative costs are kept low, indicating efficient management.
Strengths
The foundation has a clear and consistent mission focus, with a strong emphasis on program spending.
Spending Breakdown
How Nelson Dancona Foundation allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
60%
Program Spending
Below average — room for improvement
15%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
25%
Fundraising
Above average fundraising costs
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 Nelson Dancona Foundation
Is Nelson Dancona Foundation a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Nelson Dancona Foundation (EIN: 223172917) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 87/100. 3 red flags identified, 1 strength noted.
Is Nelson Dancona Foundation a good charity to donate to?
Nelson Dancona Foundation has a Mission Score of 87/100. Revenue: $360K. Assets: $483K. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Nelson Dancona Foundation?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Nelson Dancona Foundation is 223172917. 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 Nelson Dancona Foundation spend its money?
Nelson Dancona Foundation allocates 60% to programs, 15% to administration, and 25% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Nelson Dancona Foundation's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Nelson Dancona Foundation's tax-exempt status using EIN 223172917 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
Nelson Dancona Foundation is a public safety & disaster preparedness nonprofit based in Southport, Connecticut, with reported revenue of $360K and assets of $483K. Our AI analysis assigns a Mission Score of 87/100 (Excellent). Approximately 60% of spending goes to programs, 15% to administration, and 25% to fundraising. The Nelson Dancona Foundation clearly outlines its spending in its annual reports. Programs receive the majority of funding, with 60% allocated to direct program expenses. Administrative costs are kept low at 15%, and 25% is dedicated to fundraising efforts. The foundation has maintained a consistent focus on programs over the years, with no significant changes in spending allocation. Executive compensation remains stable, with no significant increases over the past five years. Revenue has grown +304% across 13 filing periods.