Not-for-Profit Status & Governance
Stepping Stones Network is a program of Oasis Productions, a 501(c)(3) faith-based organization that can receive tax-deductible donations. The organization is overseen by three Governing Board members. We are currently recruiting for two more Governing members and creating a Development Council. If you have an interest in a Board or Council position, please fill out the form below:
Fundraising
Our approach to fundraising includes grant-writing, events, and reaching out to individuals and organizations through our email, social media, and community engagement network. Our Giving funds include Immediate Needs (Butterfly Circle), Monthly Giving ($24 to Restore), and Church Offerings (25 to Thrive). Some years, we hold an event in November, Festival of Trees, in partnership with designers and corporate and family sponsors.
We pursue foundation and competitive grants and have been generously funded by the Department of Justice: Office of Victims of Crime, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority: Victim of Crime Act, Safe House Project, the Robert & Aimee Hombach Foundation, Community Purse, Grainger Foundation, and Lake County Community Trust.
Financial
Stepping Stones Network is committed to honor our donors and community through fiscal responsibility. Our most recent IRS Form 990 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2025 reflects total revenue of $942,581 and total expenses of $901,623, resulting in a net surplus of $40,958. We are proud to report that 88% of our FY25 expenses supported our Moms and Kids program while our administrative costs reflect only 12% of our expenses for this period. The support of our donors, combined with our financial integrity, allowed us to serve 45 women and children in FY25.
Staffing & Operations
We operate with a flexible staff mix of 16 full- and part-time employees, contractors, and incredibly committed volunteer leaders who serve with the same dedication as employees. Our full-time employees are all primarily dedicated to direct client service. 93 percent of HR costs are allocated to programs and 7 percent to administration.