CVLI Obtains 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status

After submitting an application in November 2022, the CVLI has been officially granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status with the IRS, meaning we are a tax-free organization and all donations made to the CVLI are tax-deductible.

What is a 501(c)(3) organization?

Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code applies to charitable organizations who meet certain requirements, including the following:

1. We don’t operate for private benefit

2. Our leadership follows strict conflict-of-interest policies

3. We only engage in activities that further our mission

Although we have to follow strict guidelines, there are several benefits to being a 501(c)(3) organization as well:

1. We don’t have to pay any federal income taxes

2. We are eligible for a variety of grants and donations

3. All donations are tax-deductible

I’m thinking about donating. How will my donations be spent?

We use funds for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to the following:

1. Day-to-day operations (website and email software, logistical expenses, etc.)

2. Scholarships (rewarding exceptional students and assisting in their academic journey)

3. Research (learning more about CVL and how we can best serve our communities)

4. Marketing and promotion (getting the message out there)

How do I donate?

We’re working to set up online donations - in the mean time, feel free to mail checks to the following address:

Cultural Value Leadership Institute

c/o Dr. Veronica Herrera

454 Big Springs Road

Sewanee, TN 37375

With questions or concerns about our 501(c)(3) status, donations, or anything else on your mind, please feel free to contact Scotty Brown, the CVLI’s Director of Operations, at sbrown@leadinculture.org.