Is Vagabond Missions Legit?

Quick charity verification for Vagabond Missions (EIN: 203891942)

Verdict: Vagabond Missions appears trustworthy

85/100Mission Score
$4.3MRevenue
$1.8MAssets
2Red Flags
4Strengths

Red Flags

Strengths

Spending Breakdown

How Vagabond Missions allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.

85%
Program Spending
Healthy — majority goes to mission
10%
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 Vagabond Missions

Is Vagabond Missions a legitimate charity?

Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Vagabond Missions (EIN: 203891942) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 85/100. 2 red flags identified, 4 strengths noted.

Is Vagabond Missions a good charity to donate to?

Vagabond Missions has a Mission Score of 85/100. Revenue: $4.3M. Assets: $1.8M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.

What is the EIN for Vagabond Missions?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Vagabond Missions is 203891942. 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 Vagabond Missions spend its money?

Vagabond Missions allocates 85% to programs, 10% to administration, and 5% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.

How can I verify Vagabond Missions's tax-exempt status?

You can verify Vagabond Missions's tax-exempt status using EIN 203891942 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

Vagabond Missions demonstrates a consistent commitment to its mission, as evidenced by its program spending. In 2023, the organization spent $3,646,709, with a significant portion directed towards program services. While the organization has experienced periods where expenses exceeded revenue, such as in 2023 ($3,177,135 revenue vs. $3,646,709 expenses) and 2022 ($3,428,973 revenue vs. $3,893,589 expenses), it has also shown strong growth in revenue over the past decade, from $374,826 in 2014 to $3,177,135 in 2023. The organization's assets have also grown substantially, from $112,881 in 2014 to $1,622,374 in 2023, indicating a growing operational capacity. The organization's financial health shows some volatility, with liabilities increasing in recent years, reaching $922,909 in 2023. However, the consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation across all available filings suggests a strong dedication to directing funds towards its mission rather than executive salaries, which is a positive indicator of financial stewardship and transparency. The NTEE code O20 (Youth Development, Shelter, and Crisis Services) aligns with a mission-driven approach, and the financial data supports a focus on program delivery. Overall, Vagabond Missions appears to be a growing organization with a strong program focus and good transparency regarding executive compensation. While managing periods of deficit spending and increasing liabilities will be important, its historical growth and consistent program orientation are positive signs. The organization's ability to attract increasing revenue over time suggests donor confidence in its mission and impact.

View Full Transparency Report →

Disclaimer

AI-generated analysis based on IRS public records. Not financial or legal advice. Verify information directly with the organization.

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