The Cares Organization’s purpose is devoted to Developing our Communities through Connecting, Uniting, and Organizing Essential Resources for those in Need, by Enhancing Ways to Give, Helping them Thrive and our Communities Grow and Adapt in response to Pressing World Challenges.
Our mission is to:
The organization accomplishes its purpose and mission through donations, grants, and gifts deployed towards charitable causes globally. Our charitable strategies focus on: Social entrepreneurship, economic development, technology for good solutions, education, environmental sustainability, food security and nutrition, poverty alleviation, health and medicine, arts and culture, and natural disaster relief humanitarian efforts.
Each of these charitable strategies have funds allocated towards subsectors such as: Innovation, Financial Stability, Woman Empowerment, Youth Empowerment, Social Opportunities, Quality Education, Community Development, Reduced Inequalities, Children Education, Disadvantaged Youth Preparedness, Sustainable Development, Biodiversity, Regenerative Agriculture, Reforestation, Food Security, Nutrition, Hunger Relief, Housing Solutions, Good Health & Wellbeing, Behavioral & Mental Health, Art & Music Therapy Healing, Non Perishables Distribution, Reconstructive Efforts, Humanitarian Efforts.
What makes us different is the combination of insights, vision, innovation, and our global influence. A formula that drives business value and creates change. We are building transformative relationships worldwide. We work collaboratively to design scalable solutions aimed at specific business outcomes, social objectives, and other short to long term goals. We bring global resources by rethinking processes, innovating through technologies, and helping to shape the future together with social entrepreneurs. As individuals we are limited in what we can do. Together, our Harvard Alumni has immense global power. Power to make things better. Power to change the world.
Our Legal Name is The Cares Organization, Inc. Our Tax ID # 92-2900377.
The Cares Organization is headquartered in Dallas, Texas USA with Global Chapters worldwide in various stages of development as we grow the membership organization.
Our Core Founder, alongside a group of global CEOs, known as “The 100 Founders,” came together to support and incubate this organization through a three-year pledge of support and financial contribution. The 100 Founder title is granted in perpetuity to those that have completed their commitment. We encouraged leaders to unite, working together to achieve “collective philanthropy” to create great impact worldwide. The concept was born out of necessity in light of the need to provide data-driven quality, reliable, and affordable solutions to people in the midst of critical life events. This data driven, crowdfunding platform provides everyone locally or worldwide the ability to make a difference by making a charitable contribution towards a cause. It takes away the feeling of helplessness people have of not knowing how to get involved with critical support and resources in a time of immense need.
The Cares Organization received its tax-exempt status under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code, which means we are exempt from federal income taxes and certain tax benefits.
The Cares Organization is exempt from federal income tax under Sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(2) of the Internal Revenue Service Tax Code, and as such, is a nonprofit corporation and public charity eligible to receive tax-deductible donations. Each donation to The Cares Organization is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law in your jurisdiction. According to the IRS, as a public charity classified under IRC Section 509(a)(2), donors can deduct contributions they make to The Cares Organization as provided in IRC Section 170. Our organization is also qualified to receive tax deductible donor advised funds, bequests, legacies, devises, transfers, or gifts under IRC Sections 2055, 2106, and 2522.
In addition, as a 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(2) public charity serving as a “sponsoring organization” our organization can establish, manage, and administer Donor Advised Fund (DAF) accounts as a preferred charitable vehicle for giving which allows a donor to make a gift, take an immediate charitable deduction, and recommend future grants made from funds in the DAF account. To maximize the tax benefits of charitable giving, it’s recommended to consult with a tax professional or financial advisor who can provide specific guidance based on your situation and the organization you’re donating to. They can help you understand the potential deductions, limits, and reporting requirements associated with your charitable contributions.
In the United States, public charities are required to issue donation receipts, often called acknowledgment letters, for any single contribution of $250 or more. This requirement is outlined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for both the donor’s benefit and as part of the nonprofit’s compliance with tax regulations.
For donors who make multiple contributions throughout the year that add up to $250 or more, our organization will provide a summary of contributions in the form of a year-end statement or summary letter.
If a donor contributes non-cash items, such as clothing or household goods, and the total value of these items is $250 or more, the nonprofit must provide a written acknowledgment that includes a description of the items and whether any goods or services were provided in return for the donation.
If you donate on our website, you will receive your tax receipt in an email in a timely manner soon after you complete your donation and no later than year end in the same calendar year. If you mail your donation, we will email or mail your receipt to you at the address you provide with your donation. In accordance with IRS regulations we credit as the actual donor, the entity listed on the check or on the credit card used in making the donation. The written acknowledgment we send out helps generous donors like yourself substantiate your tax deductions when filing your income tax returns. Without proper documentation, donors might not be able to claim the deduction. We encourage you to visit with your tax professional for details on how to claim your tax deductions. If you did not receive a receipt or lost your receipt, please email us at: Compliance@TheCaresOrganization.org.
To make a charitable donation that may be deductible from taxes for the current year, kindly donate by December 31.
A public charity is a nonprofit organization that receives funding from the general public, government, and private sources. It’s dedicated to serving the public interest and typically engages in activities like providing educational or charitable services. According to the IRS, as a public charity classified under IRC Section 509(a)(2), donors can deduct contributions they make to The Cares Organization as provided in IRC Section 170. Our organization is also qualified to receive tax deductible donor advised funds, bequests, legacies, devises, transfers, or gifts under IRC Sections 2055, 2106, and 2522.
Public charities receive a substantial portion of their income from the general public, government grants, and program services, in addition to high net worth individuals, families, foundations, or corporations. While private foundations, on the other hand, are typically funded by a small group of individuals, families, or corporations.
Public charities can offer a wide range of programs and services depending on their mission. This can include educational initiatives, community development projects, healthcare services, disaster relief, poverty alleviation, and more.
Public charities are funded through various sources, including donations from individuals, grants from government agencies and foundations, fundraising events, and revenue generated from programs and services.
Yes, donations made to most public charities are tax-deductible if you itemize deductions on your tax return. However, it’s recommended to consult with a tax professional for specific guidance.
You can use tools like the IRS Exempt Organizations Select Check or platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to verify a public charity’s tax-exempt status and review their financial records.
Yes, most public charities are required to make their financial information available to the public per law. This transparency helps donors and stakeholders understand how funds are being used.
Yes, many public charities accept in-kind donations, which can include goods and services. Make sure to check with our Team about our specific needs and guidelines for accepting non-monetary and in-kind donations. Please contact us at: Donate@TheCaresOrganization.org.
You can get involved with us by making a donation, participating in fundraising and friendraising events, sponsoring fundraising events, partnering with us, volunteering your time or expertise, or becoming friend of the organization. If you are a member of an alumni, you can also become a founder, member, or benefactor. Contact our team directly to learn about these opportunities at: GetInvolved@TheCaresOrganization.org.
Generosity is at the heart of The Cares Organization! You can easily donate Online, by visiting our Donations Page: TheCaresOrganization.org/Donate. You can also find this Offline by visiting our Documents Page: TheCaresOrganization.org/documents where you can download, print, complete, sign and email your donation information to us at: Donate@TheCaresOrganization.org, or, you can mail it to:
The Cares Organization
Attn: Donor Services
539 W. Commerce St. Suite 8439
Dallas, TX 75208 USA
Your Donations to contribute to our organization’s ability to carry out our mission and programs. The impact can range from providing resources for community projects to supporting research, education, and more. 100% of your donation goes to fund charitable organizations.
No, The Cares Organization is not affiliated with any particular religion. Our values are based on Deep Purpose, Greater Good, and Spirituality, which means we believe in shared values and a sense of connectedness to one another, to Earth, and to the Divine. We engage with many communities, including faith communities through our curated faith programs, which allow congregations to demonstrate their commitment to doing good while promoting cultural awareness by raising funds to help end hunger, end poverty, clean oceans, or improve communities.
The Cares Organization does not have a political affiliation. Our organization will absolutely refrain from: a) Participating in political campaigns of candidates for local, state, or federal office in the US or abroad, and, b) Restrict any lobbying and/or advocacy activities to an insubstantial part of our total activities.
To maintain tax exempt status, the IRS places certain restrictions on section 501(c)3 organizations regarding political activities, with the following caveats:
Public charities, as tax-exempt nonprofit organizations, are generally required to provide transparency and make certain financial information available to the public. This transparency helps our donors, stakeholders, and the general public understand how the organization is using its funds and operating. While the specific requirements can vary by jurisdiction, the following are common practices and requirements for public charities to post financial information for public viewing:
The allocation of funds for administrative costs in a startup nonprofit organization can vary based on factors such as the organization’s size, mission, operating model, and financial capacity. It’s important to consider benchmarks and best practices within the nonprofit sector, but also to recognize that each organization’s circumstances are unique. Here are some considerations when comparing administrative costs of a startup nonprofit with similar groups:
When comparing administrative costs, it’s helpful to research similar organizations in terms of mission, size, and programs. Benchmarking against peers can provide insight into industry standards while also taking into account the startup organization’s unique circumstances and strategic priorities.
At The Cares Organization, our promise embodies the essence of our mission and values:
This statement encapsulates our organization’s core principles and our commitment to fostering a community of dedicated and impactful members who are dedicated to the betterment of our world.
Absolutely! Our Board of Directors guide and protect the vision and direction of the organization with dual Bylaws and State Law fiduciary duties towards all stakeholders. The Cares Organization’s activities and governance are overseen by its esteemed Board of Directors and dedicated Officers. Typically, the Board and Officers cannot hand over their management roles to third parties like Members or Advisory Committees, as this would violate their Fiduciary Duty. Yet, when it comes to the organization’s day-to-day operations, decisions may be delegated to our Class of Members and Advisory Committee members. In some instances, the actions themselves may be delegated, if the Board authorizes the individual either via resolution or in the Bylaws. Our Leadership Team of Directors, Officers, Members, is comprised of brilliant global CEOs from the for-profit world.
The Cares Organization is a nonstock corporation and does not have shareholders. The Cares organization is a nonprofit membership corporation. The corporation has one class of members called the Governing Board Members. The members of the corporation have the rights set forth in the Bylaws and applicable law.
The Governing Board, established by the Board, is a Member Class with delegated fiduciary duties and the right to vote on the following fundamental corporate transactions: Merger, sale of assets, legal domestication, and statutory conversion.
The Governing Board members are high profile community leaders and entrepreneurs with strong leadership, strategy, finance, technology and innovation global expertise and who in the spirit of our mission, commit time and money to help with financial resources and connections, supported by One (1) Chairman, One (1) or more Vice Chairmen, Committee Chairs and many Committee Members, to assist with activities in Six (6) Committees: Strategy, Audit, Nominating, Technology, Impact, and Fundraising.
Please note that the term “Members,” as used in the context of statutory law and corporate governance, does not refer to the individuals who attain “Member” status through the payment of membership dues.
Yes, our organization has two Advisory Committees: Foundation Board and Funds Policy Board.
The Foundation Board, an Advisory Committee established by the Board, evaluates and make advisory recommendations to the Board of Directors concerning the operations and potential uses of resources in furtherance of our exempt purposes. More specifically, the Foundation Board provides advice and recommendations to the Board on events and fundraising and on other matters as the Board may request from time to time.
Foundation Board members are high profile community leaders, entrepreneurs, foundations, and caring individuals who in the spirit of our mission, commit time and money to help with financial resources connections, and the planning of activities: Fundraisers, Friendraisers, Sponsorships, Outreach, and Awareness Activities in support of the organization. The Foundation Board convenes informally around a Calendar of Events and Activities locally and globally supported by One (1) Chairman, One (1) or more Vice Chairmen, Committee Chairs and many Committee Members to assist with activities in Eight (8) Committees: Events, Communications, Membership, Partnerships, Sponsorships, Culture, Youth Chapters, and Global Chapters.
The members of the Advisory Committee may be, but need not be, Directors or Officers of the corporation, but must be one of the 1000 Founders of The Cares Organization. No Foundation Board member shall have the authority to commit any of the Corporation’s resources.
Our people, our donors, and our reputation.
A solid reputation inspires Confidence in our ability to: Accomplish a mission; attract donor funding and support; draw a passionate and dynamic Board and team; operate efficiently and compliant with laws; and motivate people to seek our help for people and regions that need it the most!
Our philosophy is that Trust is the most crucial element in successfully running a nonprofit. Our livelihood is based on our relationships with Donors, Alumni, and Communities. While nonprofits are exposed to real risks (legal, financial, and reputational) as well as public perception accelerated by the speed of internet and social media channels, we take a proactive approach to protecting our greatest asset: “Reputation”.
A comprehensive due diligence and screening process is performed on “where do our funds come from”, “where do our funds go”, and on our Founders, Officers, Directors, Staff, and Partner organizations to protect the organization and its stakeholders from legal and reputational risk.
Our organization recently concluded a “Comprehensive Legal and Governance Review” of all of our Governance Policies and we pass with flying colors! From a legal and statutory standpoint, as recommended by our lawyers, the organization has moved into a more ‘institutional’ nonprofit organization structure with only one Board of Directors, one Member Class: Governing Board, and two Advisory Committees: Foundation Board and Funds Policy Board.
We received quite the accolade by our legal counsel, in fact, recognizing our unique strategy and innovative platform at The Cares Organization. Coming from one of the world’s most reputable law firms, particularly one with a strong nonprofit focus, this recognition underscores our status as “a cutting-edge tech-enabled organization, pioneering modern strategies within the nonprofit sector”.
With the comprehensive legal review and governance transformation provided by our lawyers and successful outcome, we now have a “strong market validation” empowering us to confidently address global challenges and opportunities as a top tier charitable organization.
Some of our internal and external policies include:
Code of Conduct Policy
Conflict of Interest Policy
Fiscal Policy
Investment Policy
Reserves Policy
Privacy Policy
Records Retention and Destruction Policy
Gifting Policy
Whistleblower Policy
Communications Policy
Compliance Screening Policy
Nondiscrimination Policy
Compensation Policy
Reimbursement Policy
Charitable Gift Refund Policy
IRS Tax Exempt Compliance Policy
Policies that are statutorily required to be publicly disclosed are posted on our website at: TheCaresOrganization.org/Disclaimers | TheCaresOrganization.org/PrivacyPolicy | TheCaresOrganization.org/TermsandConditions. The rest are best practices internal policies of the organization that can be shared on a need-to-know basis. Please reach out to us to inquire about any of our policies at: Compliance@TheCaresOrganization.org.
Certainly! The Culture Committee, a part of the Foundation Board, has a specific mission, which includes:
If you’re living overseas and want to get involved with our global initiatives, joining a Global Chapter is a fantastic way to do so. Our organization has established Global Chapters to ensure widespread outreach and engagement across the world. These chapters represent various global regions, including:
Each Global Chapter is responsible for identifying local leaders within their respective regions to carry out events and activities that align with our charitable mission. They actively engage with their local communities, addressing local needs, sharing inspiring stories, and encouraging people to contribute to our mission. These chapters collaborate with individuals, foundations, corporations, and community organizations in their regions to host local events and initiatives in support of our charitable mission.
Global Chapters also work closely with our organization’s membership in each country within their region, seeking ways to involve them and tap into their local and regional networks for support and participation. Additionally, they explore opportunities for joint programs and collaborations with official Alumni Clubs and other Affinity Organizations.
Joining a Global Chapter allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference in your specific region and beyond, all while contributing to our global charitable efforts.
The Cares Organization carries out its mission globally. While the majority of our funds are deployed into US based charities, we ensure these charities have a global reach.
Absolutely! The Cares Organization is actively involved in projects across various cities and rural areas in the United States. We apply the same rigorous criteria and commitment to sustainability for projects here as we do globally. Our aim is to make a positive impact, and our projects in the US are a reflection of this dedication.
The Cares Organization can operate globally, but there are certain countries and situations where additional caution and consideration might be necessary. The decision to fund activities or programs in specific countries is carefully reviewed, monitored and assessed by the organization’s Fund Policy Board, in consultation with its Board of Directors, and C-Level Executives; and decisions by the Board of Directors are based on a combination of legal, ethical, and practical considerations. Here are some factors we consider:
Ultimately, the decision to fund activities in a specific country are made with careful consideration of these factors and in alignment with our organization’s mission and values. It’s important for us to conduct due diligence, consult with experts, and prioritize the wellbeing of the beneficiaries we aim to serve.
Our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws are internal documents automatically, though our organization might choose to make them public. To apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the IRS, for example, our organization had to attach our bylaws to the application. The IRS makes all of this public—including our bylaws. The short answer is, on a need-to-know basis, we can but requests must be made in writing and we ask you kindly allow for reasonable time to process your request. We can send these to you for free if you’re in the United States.
As Alumni we are forever a part of Harvard. Our organization is a collection of Harvard Alumni who actively engage in communicating and gathering around a central unifying purpose, mission, background or activity beyond class affiliation or regional proximity. We consider this to be a critical part of what connects so many Alumni with each other and with Harvard. Therefore, as an implicit component of our mission is to promote the welfare of Harvard as our alma matter institution and to establish a Mutually Beneficial Relationship between the University and its Alumni, encouraging Peer-To-Peer Interaction and Activities promoting growth of Personal and Professional Connections with Alumni who share our interests, industry, or identity; an opportunity to Access Professional Resources and a Network of Alumni outside their geographic region; Find Opportunities for intellectual enrichment, advocacy, and community service; and Stay Connected to Friends old and new.
From a legal standpoint, The Cares Organization chose to operate as an independent, Harvard alumni-led nonprofit organization. Our organization is not legally affiliated with Harvard. We are always welcome to pursue the process of legal affiliation with Harvard through the Harvard Alumni Association.
Absolutely – – All Alumni of Harvard are eligible to join the Membership of our organization. Any Harvard alumni school and cohort interested to qualify as a Founder can also do so by emailing us their interest to join at: GetInvolved@TheCaresOrganization.org.
Membership and Founder status are reserved exclusively for Harvard Alumni, Reciprocal Schools Alumni, and other Alumni Communities as well as our esteemed Dynasty Donors, and their parents or children, who may or may not be a part of an Alumni group.
Membership is comprised of an Extraordinary Group of Individuals who Possess The Means and The Will to Make a Difference. By Leveraging from the Power of Accretion and Economies of Scale our Donors and Foundations can Create the Most Impact.
A Harvard Alumnus or Alumna is defined by the University as “one who has registered in and taken part in the academic program of any department of Harvard University or Radcliffe College for a period of at least six weeks.” Using this definition, Membership is expanded to include parents and children of current students, graduates of shorter graduate programs (Harvard school-sponsored Executive Education programs held in Cambridge & Boston), faculty, surviving spouses of members, and other affiliates of the University (fellows, students, etc.). These persons are often given “Associate” Member status but are a “Member” nonetheless.
Absolutely – – Everyone can be a Donor. Everyone can be a Friend of The Cares Organization.
Donors, we welcome your Community Leadership through a Generous Donation! And to everyone, we welcome you as a Friend of The Cares Organization to join us for free. In addition, the organization offers Membership and Founder status, reserved exclusively for Harvard Alumni, Reciprocal Schools, and other Alumni Communities as well as our esteemed Dynasty Donors, and their parents and children, who may or may not be a part of an Alumni group. This notion of Affinity is how we preserve a strong foundation for support by a curated group of extraordinary individuals who possess The Means and The Will to Make a Difference.
Yes, The Cares Organization is quite effective and efficient in its operations and deployment of funds. The Cares Organization aims to support families, businesses and communities to build sustainable ecosystems that strengthen rural economies and put people on a pathway to Sustainable Living Income. For every social entrepreneur that receives a donation from The Cares Organization, also receives Board advisory services, training, and support from The Cares Organization to ensure success and sustainability, in addition to others benefit indirectly such as social, business, and/or community recognition from advertising that they are prize winners and entrepreneurs supported by Harvard Alumni.
The Cares Organization provides all the above. Our Members and Alumni have a lot to give.
We deploy charitable funds to qualifying nonprofits in alignment with our mission and purpose. We give prize grants to social entrepreneurs and conduct values-based training and advisory services for free.
We can purchase and transport food, water, and even income-producing animals, as well as we can provide social entrepreneurship support through intensive training in animal husbandry; environmentally sound, sustainable farming; community development and global education.
Harvard holds a very special place in all our hearts. Our Harvard education changed our lives in ways unimaginable and gave us opportunities we could not have accessed otherwise. And how we honor Harvard is by keeping the alumni spirit alive, committing as alumni to find ways to “stay together and work together” towards solutions that can make our world a better place!
Our strength lies in our network and ability connect with like-minded individuals whose passion and mission aligns with the organization’s charitable purposes.
You bet! We like to do good and have fun in the process. Our organization delivers a number of key fundraisers a year in pursuit of our charitable purposes. They are some of the premier Harvard alumni gatherings worldwide, led and attended by top level global CEOs and owners, providing invaluable connection opportunities with our distinguished alumni and their guests, quality partners and sponsors in attendance, fun entertainment and social activities, and a philanthropic opportunity like no other to make a difference!
Yes, we offer great partnership and sponsorship opportunities providing high brand visibility and exposure opportunities for your company into the highly coveted and exclusive network of Harvard Alumni’s global CEOs. Whether you sponsor for networking and relationship building that align with your target audiences allowing your brand to connect with potential customers leading to valuable partnerships, or to showcase a commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, Community Engagement, and Impact, our bespoke events offer invaluable partnerships and sponsoring opportunities. Join our growing list of Sponsors!
Email us your interest to become a Corporate Sponsor to: sponsor@thecaresorganization.org
Yes, and thank you for asking! You can download our Toolkits, Brochures, or Corporate Presentation online at: TheCaresOrganization.org/Documents.