Our 501(c)(3) Status.
We’re on our way to full nonprofit status.
The Iris Center has officially filed for 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognition with the IRS.
While we are currently in our pending phase, we are operating as a nonprofit in good faith and your support still makes a real and immediate impact.
What does “pending” mean?
Becoming a 501(c)(3) is a formal process through the IRS that grants tax-exempt status to nonprofit organizations.
We’ve submitted our application and are awaiting final approval. In the meantime, we are continuing to operate as a mission-driven nonprofit, focused on care, access, and community.
Are donations still accepted?
Yes. We are currently accepting donations through our fiscal sponsor, La Cocina, who holds nonprofit status and receives donations on our behalf. La Cocina is a Colorado-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 83-3592629)
When you donate, you’ll receive a receipt from them for your records. Your contribution is still tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors will receive receipts and end-of-year donation statements issued by La Cocina, indicating that the donation has been restricted for use by The Iris Center. Refer to our FAQ page to learn more about fiscal sponsorship.
What happens when our status is approved?
Once we receive final 501(c)(3) approval from the IRS:
We’ll begin issuing receipts directly from The Iris Center
We’ll publicly update our records and supporters
We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
Why transparency matters to us
Trust is at the heart of everything we do. That includes being open about how we’re funded and where we are in our nonprofit journey.
We’re grateful for your belief in our mission—and your willingness to build something different with us.
Questions about donations or nonprofit status?
The Iris Center is a nonprofit organization pending 501(c)(3) approval. Donations are processed through a fiscal sponsor, La Cocina, and is tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.