A Step Ahead Foundation of Middle Tennessee Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

A Step Ahead Foundation of Middle Tennessee Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing unplanned pregnancies by providing education and access to free long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) to women in Middle Tennessee. Established in 2015, the organization aims to improve educational, economic, and health outcomes for women and their children by offering effective family planning options.

Mission and Vision

The mission of A Step Ahead Foundation is to empower women in Middle Tennessee by offering free access to LARC methods, thereby enabling them to plan their futures and families effectively. The vision is to create a community where women have the resources and knowledge to make informed reproductive health decisions, leading to healthier families and communities.

Primary Area of Focus

The organization focuses on providing education about and access to LARC methods, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, which are among the most effective reversible contraceptive options available. By offering these services at no cost, A Step Ahead Foundation addresses barriers to contraception access, particularly among uninsured and low-income women.

Industry Significance

In the context of public health, A Step Ahead Foundation plays a crucial role in reducing unplanned pregnancies, which can lead to improved maternal and child health outcomes, economic stability, and educational attainment for women. By focusing on LARC methods, the organization contributes to a significant public health strategy aimed at enhancing reproductive health and autonomy among women in the region.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Prevent Unplanned Pregnancies: By providing free access to LARC methods, the organization aims to reduce the incidence of unplanned pregnancies in Middle Tennessee.

Enhance Health Outcomes: Improving maternal and child health by offering effective contraceptive options to women, leading to better health outcomes for families.

Promote Economic and Educational Advancement: Empowering women to plan their families, thereby enabling them to pursue educational and career opportunities without the interruption of unplanned pregnancies.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Contraceptive Access: Facilitating access to LARC methods, including IUDs and implants, through partnerships with local clinics and healthcare providers.

Community Education: Conducting educational programs and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about reproductive health and contraception options.

Support Services: Offering transportation assistance to and from clinics for individuals seeking contraceptive services, ensuring accessibility for all women in the service area.

Key Technologies Utilized

Data Management Systems: Utilizing secure databases to manage client information, appointment scheduling, and service tracking.

Educational Platforms: Employing digital tools and platforms to disseminate educational materials and conduct virtual outreach programs.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Geographic Focus: Serving residents in 29 counties across Middle Tennessee, including Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, and surrounding areas.

Target Demographics: Uninsured and low-income women aged 13-44 who may face barriers to accessing effective contraceptive methods.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

A Step Ahead Foundation has secured funding through various channels, including grants from foundations, individual contributions, and government support. In the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $1,256,046, with expenses amounting to $1,067,273. This resulted in a net asset increase of $188,773, bringing total net assets to $674,183 by the end of the fiscal year.

Total Funds Raised

In 2023, the organization raised a total of $1,256,046, comprising:

Government Grants: $796,655

Other Grants: $124,181

General Contributions: $254,299

Annual Event: $48,627

Investment Income: $10,421

Miscellaneous: $1,863

Notable Investors

The organization has received support from various grantmakers, including:

Family and Children's Service: Program Support grant of $248,889

The Healing Trust: Grant to further the exempt purposes of the organization amounting to $35,000

Joe C. Davis Foundation: Program Support grant of $20,000

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds raised are primarily allocated towards program services, which accounted for $869,604 of the total expenses in 2023. Supporting services, including administrative and fundraising activities, comprised $197,669 of the expenses. The organization focuses on utilizing its resources to expand access to LARC methods, enhance community education initiatives, and provide support services such as transportation assistance to ensure comprehensive service delivery.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

As a nonprofit organization, A Step Ahead Foundation does not develop pharmaceutical or medical products; instead, its "pipeline" consists of:

Community Education Programs: Ongoing development of educational initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of reproductive health and contraception options.

Partnerships with Healthcare Providers: Establishing and expanding collaborations with local clinics and healthcare providers to facilitate access to LARC methods.

Support Services Expansion: Enhancing support services, such as transportation assistance, to improve accessibility for clients across the service area.

Stages of Development

Community Education Programs: Continuous development and implementation of educational programs tailored to various demographics within the community.

Partnerships with Healthcare Providers: Ongoing efforts to establish new partnerships and strengthen existing ones to increase the availability of LARC services.

Support Services Expansion: Ongoing assessment and enhancement of support services to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Target Conditions

The organization's initiatives target the prevention of unplanned pregnancies, aiming to improve maternal and child health outcomes, reduce infant mortality rates, and enhance economic and educational opportunities for women.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Community Education Programs: Regularly scheduled educational sessions and workshops throughout the year, with specific programs planned quarterly.

Partnerships with Healthcare Providers: Continuous outreach and partnership development, with new partnerships aimed to be established annually.

Support Services Expansion: Ongoing evaluation and enhancement of support services, with annual reviews to assess effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

A Step Ahead Foundation utilizes secure data management systems to handle client information, appointment scheduling, and service tracking. These systems ensure confidentiality and efficiency in service delivery.

Significant Scientific Methods

The organization employs evidence-based approaches in its educational programs, utilizing current research on reproductive health and contraception to inform content and delivery methods.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While the organization does not currently utilize AI-driven technologies, there is potential for future integration of AI to enhance data analysis, client engagement, and program evaluation processes.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Jenny Matthews: Executive Director

Professional Background: Extensive experience in nonprofit management and public health, with a focus on reproductive health services.

Key Contributions: Overseeing organizational operations, strategic planning, and community outreach initiatives.

Caina Lynch: Program and Operations Director

Professional Background: Background in public health and program management, with experience in reproductive health services.

Key Contributions: Managing program development, implementation, and evaluation to ensure effective service delivery.

Ashley Hullett: Community Outreach Specialist

Professional Background: Experience in community engagement and education, with a focus on health promotion.

Key Contributions: Coordinating outreach programs and partnerships to expand the organization's reach and impact.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds in law, business, healthcare, and community service, providing governance and strategic direction for the organization. Notable members include: