PLATINUM2024

Saint Sophia's Mission

aka Sophia's Mission   |   Passaic, NJ   |  sophiasmissionus.org

Mission

Sophia’s Mission is a registered 501c3 advocates and creates meaningful employment for people living on the Autistic Spectrum and with Disabilities. Sophia’s Mission in a joint partnership with NEWHD Media is making it possible for people with ASD and Disabilities to enter the exciting profession of Broadcasting. Radio Personalities that can achieve many amazing accomplishments that for many years were out of reach.

Notes from the nonprofit

At Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media, our work is driven by a profound commitment to creating a more inclusive world. We are dedicated to empowering autistic individuals, people with other disabilities, veterans, and the blind by providing meaningful employment opportunities that allow their unique talents and perspectives to shine. Our hopes and dreams are rooted in the belief that every individual deserves a chance to contribute and succeed. By developing accessible and engaging streaming radio platforms, we aim to amplify diverse voices and foster connections within communities everywhere. We envision a future where our initiatives not only break down barriers but also inspire broader societal change toward inclusivity and acceptance.

Ruling year info

2021

Principal Officer

Zachary Martin

Co Principal Officer

Emily Stoecker

Main address

200 3rd Avenue

Passaic, NJ 07055 USA

Show more contact info

EIN

84-2203344

NTEE code info

Radio (A34)

IRS filing requirement

This organization is required to file an IRS Form 990-N.

Communication

Blog

Programs and results

What we aim to solve

SOURCE: Self-reported by organization

Summary of Problems Addressed by Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media 1. Employment Barriers for Autistic Individuals and People with Disabilities: Problem: Autistic individuals and people with other disabilities often face significant challenges in finding and retaining employment due to societal stigma, lack of accommodations, and limited opportunities. Solution: Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media aim to create tailored job opportunities within the streaming radio industry, providing training and support to help these individuals thrive in a professional environment. 2. Lack of Accessible Employment for the Blind: Problem: Blind individuals frequently encounter barriers to employment, including inaccessible technology and a lack of job roles suited to their capabilities. Solution: By enhancing the NEWHD platform with accessibility features and offering specialized training, the initiative will enable blind individuals to work effectively in various roles within the streaming radio sector

Our programs

SOURCE: Self-reported by organization

What are the organization's current programs, how do they measure success, and who do the programs serve?

NEWHD Media

Saint Sophia's partners with NEWHD Media to provide individuals with Autism and other special needs with meaningful and rewarding jobs. Revenue raised from Saint Sophia's goes directly to providing these individuals with training, technology and support to become DJs and producers. We strive to enhance and transform the lives with those who have experienced isolation or marginalization due to their disabilities. Every day, we witness the awakening of the spirit and creativity of those in our program who now feel a sense of purpose and value.

Population(s) Served
Age groups
Ethnic and racial groups
Health
Work status and occupations
Social and economic status

Where we work

Our results

SOURCE: Self-reported by organization

How does this organization measure their results? It's a hard question but an important one.

Number of unique website visitors

This metric is no longer tracked.
Totals By Year
Related Program

NEWHD Media

Type of Metric

Output - describing our activities and reach

Direction of Success

Increasing

Context Notes

Metrics of Success Over the Past Year and a Half Over the past year and a half, Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media have seen remarkable growth and engagement.

Goals & Strategy

SOURCE: Self-reported by organization

Learn about the organization's key goals, strategies, capabilities, and progress.

Charting impact

Four powerful questions that require reflection about what really matters - results.

Strategy to Achieve Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media's Goals
Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media aim to expand their platform by adding more streaming radio stations, creating inclusive employment opportunities for autistic individuals, people with disabilities, the blind, and veterans. The first step involves upgrading the technology infrastructure to support additional stations, with a focus on integrating accessibility features like screen readers and voice commands to make the platform usable for all. This development will be completed within six months, ensuring a robust platform that can handle increased traffic and diverse content needs.

Recruitment and training are critical components of this strategy. By partnering with organizations that support the target groups, Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media will establish a steady pipeline of qualified candidates. Comprehensive training programs will be developed to equip employees with skills in broadcasting, content creation, and technical operations. Additionally, mentorship programs and necessary accommodations will be implemented to create a supportive work environment that fosters growth and retention.

Marketing and outreach efforts will focus on raising awareness and engagement through targeted social media campaigns, community events, and press releases. These initiatives aim to increase brand visibility and strengthen community ties, leveraging influencer collaborations and media coverage to reach a broader audience.

To ensure financial sustainability, the organization will apply for grants and secure sponsorships, while also developing monetization strategies such as targeted advertising and premium content subscriptions. Detailed budgets and regular financial performance reviews will support efficient financial management and sustainable growth.

Advocacy and awareness campaigns will highlight the capabilities of people with disabilities and veterans, partnering with advocacy groups to amplify the impact. Sharing success stories will provide positive representation and motivate target groups.

Continuous improvement and monitoring will be achieved by establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and implementing feedback mechanisms. Regular reviews and strategy adjustments will ensure the organization remains dynamic and responsive to changing needs. This comprehensive strategy aims to expand the platform, create inclusive employment opportunities, promote accessibility, and ensure long-term financial sustainability for Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media.

Strategy to Achieve Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media's Goals
Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media plan to expand their platform by adding more streaming radio stations to create inclusive employment opportunities for autistic individuals, people with disabilities, the blind, and veterans. This will involve several strategic initiatives across platform development, recruitment, marketing, financial planning, advocacy, and continuous improvement.

Platform Expansion and Development:

To enhance the platform, the organization will invest in scalable technology solutions to support additional streaming radio stations, aiming to complete this upgrade within six months. Accessibility features such as screen readers, voice commands, and easy navigation will be integrated to ensure the platform is usable by blind users and individuals with various disabilities. Additionally, a continuous process of content development and diversification will be maintained, with quarterly reviews to ensure a broad and engaging content portfolio that attracts diverse listeners.

Recruitment and Training:

Collaborations with organizations that support autistic individuals, people with disabilities, the blind, and veterans will be established within three months to create a steady pipeline of qualified candidates. Comprehensive training programs covering broadcasting, content creation, and technical operations will be designed and rolled out within six months. To support employee growth and retention, mentorship programs and necessary accommodations will be implemented.

Marketing and Outreach:

Targeted social media campaigns will be launched within four months to raise awareness about the mission and new stations. Community engagement will be strengthened through webinars, live events, and influencer collaborations planned within three months and executed quarterly. Enhanced media coverage and public awareness will be achieved through ongoing press releases and pitching stories to journalists.

Financial Planning and Sustainability:

Securing funding will involve identifying relevant grants, preparing applications, and approaching potential sponsors immediately and on an ongoing basis. Monetization strategies, including targeted advertising and premium content subscriptions, will be developed within three months and implemented within six months to ensure diversified revenue streams. Continuous financial management through detailed budgets and monthly reviews will support sustainable growth.

Advocacy and Awareness:

Campaigns highlighting the capabilities of people with disabilities and veterans will be launched within three months to increase public awareness and support for inclusive employment. Strategic collaborations with advocacy organizations will amplify impact and reach. Success stories of employees thriving on the platform will be collected within six months and shared continuously to provide positive representation and motivation.






Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media: Capabilities to Achieve Goals
Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media are uniquely positioned to achieve their ambitious goals through a combination of strategic planning, robust infrastructure, and a commitment to inclusivity. The organizations' expertise in digital media and their focus on creating accessible platforms provide a solid foundation for expansion. By investing in scalable technology and integrating advanced accessibility features, they can ensure that their streaming radio stations are both cutting-edge and inclusive, catering to a diverse audience.

The strength of Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media lies in their collaborative approach to recruitment and training. By partnering with organizations that support autistic individuals, people with disabilities, the blind, and veterans, they can tap into a rich pool of talent. The development of comprehensive training programs will equip these individuals with the necessary skills in broadcasting, content creation, and technical operations, ensuring that employees are well-prepared and confident in their roles. This commitment to professional development is crucial for fostering a supportive and productive work environment.

Marketing and outreach are also key areas where these organizations excel. With a strategic focus on targeted social media campaigns, community engagement events, and effective public relations efforts, Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media can significantly raise awareness about their mission. Their ability to create compelling content and leverage influencer collaborations will enhance brand visibility and foster a strong connection with their audience. This proactive approach to marketing ensures that their message reaches a wide and diverse demographic.

Financial sustainability is another critical strength. The organizations' proactive efforts to secure grants, sponsorships, and develop monetization strategies will provide a stable financial foundation. By diversifying revenue streams through targeted advertising and premium content subscriptions, they can ensure long-term viability. Additionally, their meticulous financial management practices, including detailed budgeting and regular performance reviews, will support sustainable growth and efficient use of resources.

Lastly, their dedication to continuous improvement and adaptability ensures that they can respond effectively to changing needs and conditions. By establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and implementing robust feedback mechanisms, Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media can continuously refine their strategies and operations. This dynamic approach, combined with their strong advocacy and awareness campaigns, positions them well to not only achieve but also sustain their goals of expanding the platform, promoting accessibility, and creating inclusive employment opportunities.

Organizational Success to Date
Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media, in partnership with Plato Data Intelligence, have achieved significant milestones in their mission to create inclusive media opportunities. Together, they have successfully upgraded both the Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media websites, ensuring that these platforms are state-of-the-art and accessible. This technical enhancement has set the stage for further expansion and innovation.

A notable achievement is the development of four streaming radio platforms, which have created over 30 on-air opportunities for autistic individuals, people with other disabilities, and the blind. This initiative has not only provided meaningful employment but also showcased the talents and capabilities of these individuals. The success of this endeavor has garnered attention and recognition, including features by the VA in 2024 and coverage by major news outlets such as CBS, WINS, and WFAN. These media appearances have helped raise awareness and validate the impact of Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media.

The organizations have also established a robust social media presence, actively engaging with a growing audience and expanding their programming to meet diverse interests. This continuous growth in audience and engagement demonstrates the effectiveness of their content and outreach strategies.

Moreover, a strategic partnership with RFC Media has equipped NEWHD with the most advanced cloud-to-tower broadcasting platforms. This technology partnership ensures that NEWHD remains at the forefront of broadcasting innovation, enhancing their ability to deliver high-quality content reliably.

These accomplishments highlight Sophia's Mission and NEWHD Media's commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and community engagement. Their ongoing efforts to expand programming and reach a broader audience are indicative of a dynamic and successful organization poised for continued growth and impact.






How we listen

SOURCE: Self-reported by organization

Seeking feedback from people served makes programs more responsive and effective. Here’s how this organization is listening.

done We shared information about our current feedback practices.
  • How is your organization using feedback from the people you serve?

    To identify bright spots and enhance positive service experiences, To make fundamental changes to our programs and/or operations, To inform the development of new programs/projects, To strengthen relationships with the people we serve, To understand people's needs and how we can help them achieve their goals

  • Which of the following feedback practices does your organization routinely carry out?

    We take steps to get feedback from marginalized or under-represented people, We aim to collect feedback from as many people we serve as possible, We take steps to ensure people feel comfortable being honest with us, We look for patterns in feedback based on demographics (e.g., race, age, gender, etc.), We look for patterns in feedback based on people’s interactions with us (e.g., site, frequency of service, etc.), We engage the people who provide feedback in looking for ways we can improve in response, We act on the feedback we receive, We share the feedback we received with the people we serve, We tell the people who gave us feedback how we acted on their feedback, We ask the people who gave us feedback how well they think we responded

  • What challenges does the organization face when collecting feedback?

    We don't have any major challenges to collecting feedback

Financials

Saint Sophia's Mission
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Operations

The people, governance practices, and partners that make the organization tick.

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Connect with nonprofit leaders

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Build relationships with key people who manage and lead nonprofit organizations with GuideStar Pro. Try a low commitment monthly plan today.

  • Analyze a variety of pre-calculated financial metrics
  • Access beautifully interactive analysis and comparison tools
  • Compare nonprofit financials to similar organizations

Want to see how you can enhance your nonprofit research and unlock more insights? Learn More about GuideStar Pro.

Saint Sophia's Mission

Board of directors
as of 07/03/2024
SOURCE: Self-reported by organization
Board chair

Rev Father Zachary

Sophia’s Mission

Sophie Joyce Stoecker

Sophia's Mission

Jeremiah Gray

Sophia's Mission

Board leadership practices

SOURCE: Self-reported by organization

GuideStar worked with BoardSource, the national leader in nonprofit board leadership and governance, to create this section.

  • Board orientation and education
    Does the board conduct a formal orientation for new board members and require all board members to sign a written agreement regarding their roles, responsibilities, and expectations? Not applicable
  • CEO oversight
    Has the board conducted a formal, written assessment of the chief executive within the past year ? Not applicable
  • Ethics and transparency
    Have the board and senior staff reviewed the conflict-of-interest policy and completed and signed disclosure statements in the past year? Not applicable
  • Board composition
    Does the board ensure an inclusive board member recruitment process that results in diversity of thought and leadership? Not applicable
  • Board performance
    Has the board conducted a formal, written self-assessment of its performance within the past three years? Not applicable

Organizational demographics

SOURCE: Self-reported; last updated 7/3/2024

Who works and leads organizations that serve our diverse communities? Candid partnered with CHANGE Philanthropy on this demographic section.

Leadership

The organization's leader identifies as:

Race & ethnicity
White/Caucasian/European
Gender identity
Male
Sexual orientation
Heterosexual or Straight
Disability status
Person without a disability

The organization's co-leader identifies as:

Race & ethnicity
White/Caucasian/European
Gender identity
Female, Not transgender
Sexual orientation
Heterosexual or Straight
Disability status
Person with a disability

Race & ethnicity

Gender identity

Transgender Identity

Sexual orientation

Disability

Equity strategies

Last updated: 07/03/2024

GuideStar partnered with Equity in the Center - an organization that works to shift mindsets, practices, and systems to increase racial equity - to create this section. Learn more

Data
  • We ask team members to identify racial disparities in their programs and / or portfolios.
  • We employ non-traditional ways of gathering feedback on programs and trainings, which may include interviews, roundtables, and external reviews with/by community stakeholders.
  • We have long-term strategic plans and measurable goals for creating a culture such that one’s race identity has no influence on how they fare within the organization.
Policies and processes
  • We use a vetting process to identify vendors and partners that share our commitment to race equity.
  • We seek individuals from various race backgrounds for board and executive director/CEO positions within our organization.
  • We have community representation at the board level, either on the board itself or through a community advisory board.
  • We engage everyone, from the board to staff levels of the organization, in race equity work and ensure that individuals understand their roles in creating culture such that one’s race identity has no influence on how they fare within the organization.