Exciting News: We're Applying for 501(c)(3) Status!

We are thrilled to announce that The Blooming Bridges Foundation will be submitting its application for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the IRS by June 15th, 2025! This is a significant step forward in our mission to be a steadfast source of support for families and first responders—walking beside them through overwhelming journeys, offering compassionate guidance, personalized care, and education that fosters understanding, healing, and lasting progress. We are eager to continue growing and serving our community.

Understanding Donations During Our Pending 501(c)(3) Status

We want to be transparent with our valued supporters about what this means for donations made while our application is under review.

When a nonprofit organization, like ours, has submitted an application for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status but has not yet received approval from the IRS, any donations made during this pending period are conditionally tax-deductible.

Here’s what that means for you:

• No Guaranteed Deductibility (Yet): Until the IRS officially grants our 501(c)(3) status, we cannot guarantee that your contribution will qualify as tax-deductible.

• Retroactive Approval is Key: The good news is that if the IRS approves our application, tax-exempt status is typically retroactive to our organization’s formation date. This means donations made while our application was pending would then likely become tax-deductible for you. You would typically receive a revised receipt from us at that time.

• If Our Application is Denied: In the event our application is not approved, donations made during the pending period will unfortunately not be tax-deductible.

• Our Commitment to Transparency: It is incredibly important to us that our donors are fully informed. We are committed to keeping you updated on the progress of our application. We believe in honest and informed giving, and we want you to understand that the deductibility of your generous gift depends on the outcome of the IRS determination.

Your Support Matters More Than Ever

Your early support is crucial as we take this important step. While we await the IRS's decision, every contribution allows us to advance our key activities:

• Advocacy and Brokering Services: Guidance is provided in navigating resources for education, healthcare, and financial support.

• Community Outreach and Engagement: Partnerships with schools and organizations foster inclusion through workshops, sibling support groups, and events with accessible childcare.

• Law Enforcement Education: This program focuses on providing officers and first responders with the skills to appropriately recognize and respond to individuals on the Autism Spectrum, including understanding common behaviors and communication styles, using de-escalation techniques, and employing effective communication strategies for those who may be nonverbal or sensitive to certain stimuli; training often involves scenario-based learning to prepare responders for real-life encounters, promoting safer and more respectful interactions with the community.

We understand that the conditional nature of tax deductibility during this period requires careful consideration. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to reach out to us at atypical.hrdb@gmail.com or 417-696-5015.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for considering a gift to The Blooming Bridges Foundation. We look forward to sharing updates on our 501(c)(3) status soon!

Warmly,

The Team at The Blooming Bridges Foundation

Vendor Fair – Food, Fun, and Community Support 

Location: 5399 Hwy 43, Joplin, MO 64804 

Hosted by: aliceCBD 

Date: Saturday, July 19 

Food: Hot dogs and hamburgers available for purchase, provided by VFW Troop 5293 

50% of food sale proceeds will benefit The Blooming Bridges Foundation and 50% will benefit VFW Troop 5293

Come out to support local vendors, enjoy delicious food, and help us make a difference!