TSNA Achieves Federal 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status

We’re proud to announce that as of March 2025, the Thomas Square Neighborhood Association (TSNA) has officially been granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status by the Internal Revenue Service. This long-anticipated designation marks a meaningful turning point for our organization—and sets the stage for deeper impact, broader collaboration, and increased financial sustainability.

🌱 Why It Matters

Achieving 501(c)(3) status is more than a bureaucratic box to check. It’s a critical step in strengthening our capacity to serve the Thomas Square community in lasting, meaningful ways. Here’s what this milestone makes possible:

• Tax-Deductible Donations: Contributions made to TSNA can now be written off by individuals and businesses—an essential factor in attracting community support.

• Eligibility for Grants: We can now apply for local, state, and national grants to fund beautification projects, public safety improvements, historic preservation, community events, and more.

• Civic Partnerships: Nonprofit status enables us to collaborate more formally with public institutions, foundations, and fellow nonprofits.

• Increased Transparency & Trust: Our financial and operational structure will meet higher standards of reporting, governance, and public accountability.

This new designation brings us into alignment with best practices for community associations nationwide and reflects the strength of our shared vision: to Keep Thomas Square Safe, Beautiful, and Together.

🙌 How We Got Here

This milestone is the result of years of commitment by dedicated board members, volunteers, and neighbors who recognized that our work as a neighborhood association deserved—and required—a stronger foundation.

From drafting revised bylaws to securing legal documentation and gathering necessary records, the process required deep organizational housekeeping, a collaborative spirit, and a steady hand. We’re grateful to everyone who played a role in this process, especially those who shepherded the work quietly behind the scenes.

🚀 What’s Next

Now that TSNA is officially a nonprofit, we’re actively exploring new opportunities to grow and sustain our work. Some of the priorities on the horizon include:

• Applying for our first community grants to support our action plan initiatives

• Identifying a trusted accountant to help guide nonprofit financial reporting, budgeting, and donor stewardship

• Clarifying bylaws to align with nonprofit governance best practices

• Creating formal sponsorship opportunities for local businesses who want to invest in the neighborhood

We’ll continue to share updates—and invite you to be a part of the process.

💬 How You Can Support

• Join the TSNA if you haven't already. If you are a TSNA member, then consider volunteering to join a committee to help shape TSNA’s future work

• Spread the word to friends, neighbors, and businesses

• Attend monthly meetings and bring your voice to the table

This is your neighborhood, your association, and now—your nonprofit. Let’s keep building it together.

With gratitude,

Jacob Jarvis

President, Thomas Square Neighborhood Association