How Does the NNPDF Spend the Money You Donate?


Year 2004 Expenditures

We believe our donors want to know that their dollars are well spent. In particular, they want to be assured that the bulk of their donations go to Foundation services rather than to administration.

The chart at the right shows actual expenditures for 2004.

The lion's share of donations support research to find a cure for Niemann-Pick Disease. Historically, 73% of expenses have been for research.

2004 Expenditures
Source: 2004 Financial Report to the Board

67 cents to Research: View our list of funded research grants.

21 cents to Education and Family Support: This includes our Newsletter, annual Family Conference, Website, and other related programs. See our Support Services page for more details.

7 cents to Administration: The National Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation has only one full time employee. Most work is done by volunteers who are parents, relatives and friends of NP patients.

5 cents to Fund Raising: Most fund raising costs are paid by the family running the event. However, the Foundation does pay up front costs for selected large fund raising events. Each sponsored event typically raises $20,000 or more.


Many watchdog organizations offer financial guidelines to help donors identify a responsible non-profit. The NNPDF exceeds the most stringent financial criteria set by these organizations.

General Guideline NNPDF Actions
  
At least 50% of contributions should be on programs. 88% of NNPDF expenses are for research, support, and education.
  
No more than 25% to 50% should be spent on fund raising and administration. Only 12% of expenses are for fund raising and administration
  
Less than three years of income should be held in reserve. Less than 12 months income is kept in reserve
(what is raised this year is spent next year).

The Foundation does not spend money (or award grants) until the funds are literally "in the bank". In January of each year, the Board of Directors meets to adopt a budget and commit funds raised in the prior year to research grants. A fund-raising goal for the coming year is also set. A second meeting at mid-year reviews fund raising and awards additional research grants if money is available.

If you have additional questions about Foundation finances or if you would like to attend the annual Board of Directors meeting, please contact Hunt Ozmer, Chairman.


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