Be An Angel Fund - Comprehensive Analysis Report

Summary

Be An Angel Fund is a non-profit organization established in 1986 with a mission to enhance the quality of life for children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness. The organization provides essential adaptive equipment and services to medically fragile children, particularly those from low-income families in Texas. Its vision is centered on instilling hope and happiness, enabling these children to realize their fullest potential. Be An Angel Fund plays a crucial role in closing critical funding gaps for adaptive equipment and support services not covered by other sources, significantly impacting the lives of thousands of children annually.

1. Strategic Focus & Objectives

Core Objectives

Be An Angel Fund's core objectives are multi-faceted, focusing on comprehensive support for children with special needs. These include direct provision of adaptive equipment, offering respite care for families, facilitating barrier-free experiences, and providing various support programs and holiday gifts. The organization also extends its support to local school districts with initiatives like the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Golf program and by sponsoring family camping weekends. An international outreach program further supports a home for medically fragile, abandoned children and a school for deaf children in the Dominican Republic.

Specialization Areas

The organization specializes in providing adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, medical strollers, and auto ramps. Beyond equipment, Be An Angel Fund focuses on creating accessible environments, exemplified by its development of 38 inclusive playgrounds and sensory rooms, media literacy labs with state-of-the-art television broadcast studios for film documentaries with closed-captioning, and hydrotherapy facilities. This comprehensive approach differentiates its services beyond simple equipment provision.

Target Markets

Be An Angel Fund primarily targets low-income children with special needs, aged birth to 22, within Texas. The organization has a significant presence in the Houston area and expanded its reach with a Dallas/Fort Worth chapter launched in January 2022. Its market positioning strategy is to serve as a critical safety net when other funding sources like Medicaid or private insurance are unavailable or insufficient.

2. Financial Overview

Funding History

Be An Angel Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In 2024, the organization reported total revenues of $3,657,831, with total expenses amounting to $3,270,086, resulting in total assets of $844,794. The organization relies on diverse funding streams, including individual donations, corporate and workplace giving, grants from foundations, corporations, and government entities, planned giving, and endowments.

Recent grants include $1,000 from Fabenco Founding Fathers Foundation and $207,083 from Dan Pastorini Charity in March and May 2025, respectively. Donations can often be matched by employers. The organization maintains transparency by making its annual reports, IRS Form 990, and financial statements publicly available.

3. Product Pipeline

Key Products/Services

Adaptive Equipment Provision:

Product name: Various adaptive devices

Description: Includes wheelchairs, hearing aids, medical strollers, and auto ramps.

Development stage: Ongoing provision based on individual needs.

Target market/condition: Children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness, aged birth to 22.

Expected timeline: Provided as needs arise and funding allows.

Key features and benefits: Addresses mobility, hearing, and accessibility challenges, improving independence and quality of life.

Respite Care Program:

Description: Provides monthly at-home care for children with special needs, and summer respite care. In fiscal year 2024, 52 children received 12 hours of monthly at-home care, and 48 children benefited from summer respite care.

Development stage: Ongoing program.

Target market/condition: Families of children with special needs requiring temporary relief.

Expected timeline: Ongoing, with scheduled care provision.

Key features and benefits: Offers critical support to caregivers, preventing burnout and improving family well-being.

Barrier-Free Experiences & Accessible Environments:

Description: Development of 38 inclusive playgrounds and sensory rooms, media literacy labs, and hydrotherapy facilities. Also facilitates family camping weekends at places like Camp For All.

Development stage: Ongoing development and partnerships.

Target market/condition: All children with special needs and their families.

Expected timeline: Continuous.

Key features and benefits: Promotes inclusion, therapeutic activities, and recreational opportunities.

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Golf Program:

Description: Enables special needs children to participate in mini-golf. In 2024, 2,935 children participated.

Development stage: Ongoing program supporting local school districts.

Target market/condition: Children with special needs, fostering physical activity and social interaction.

Expected timeline: Annually during school terms.

Key features and benefits: Provides a unique therapeutic and recreational outlet, promoting skill development.

Christmas Gifting Program:

Description: Annually serves over 6,000 special needs children across Texas with holiday gifts. In fiscal year 2024, 6,092 children were served.

Development stage: Annual program.

Target market/condition: Children with special needs and their families during the holiday season.

Expected timeline: Annually leading up to the holiday season.

Key features and benefits: Brings joy and support to families, reducing financial strain during holidays.

International Outreach Program:

Description: Supports a home for medically fragile, abandoned children and a school for deaf children in the Dominican Republic.

Development stage: Ongoing.

Target market/condition: Medically fragile and deaf children in the Dominican Republic.

Expected timeline: Continuous support.

Key features and benefits: Extends the organization's mission globally, providing essential resources to underserved populations.

4. Technology & Innovation

Technology Stack

As a non-profit, Be An Angel Fund's technological platform supports its operational infrastructure and community engagement. The organization utilizes its website for providing information, accepting applications for assistance, and promoting events. Online donation forms are crucial for fundraising, particularly its "Angel Advocate" program for recurring monthly giving. Communication with beneficiaries and supporters is managed through newsletters and various social media channels.

The organization's innovative approach is evident in its focus on creating accessible environments. This includes the construction of 38 inclusive playgrounds and sensory rooms, developing media literacy labs with state-of-the-art television broadcast studios for film documentaries with closed-captioning, and supporting hydrotherapy facilities. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to utilizing practical innovations to enhance the lives of children with special needs.

5. Leadership & Management

Executive Team

Marti Boone: Executive Director. Leads the overall operations and strategic direction of the organization.
Margaret Adsit: Program Director (Houston) and Development Director (Partnership Lake Houston). Oversees program implementation in Houston and manages development efforts in the Lake Houston area.
Estella Gutierrez: Administrative Assistant. Provides essential administrative support to the team.
Dante Pastorini: Chairman, Director, and Board Chair of the organization. Provides strategic oversight and governance.
Denise Coffman: Director of Development for the DFW Chapter. Drives fundraising and development initiatives for the Dallas/Fort Worth chapter.
Brandee Guyton: Programs Manager for the DFW Chapter. Manages and coordinates all programs within the Dallas/Fort Worth chapter.

The Executive Board includes individuals with diverse professional backgrounds, such as Dan Pastorini (President of Dan Pastorini Quality Foods), Mike Williams (General Manager, Oak Farms Dairy), and Jim G. Anderson (Retired Military, Anderson Travel). Other Executive Board members include Cary Benson (Palliser Furniture), Bob Leonard (Retired), Jan Pilko (Retired), Ray Schlaff (Retired), Steve Sigloch (President, GSI/GSS), Bryan Smith (Special Care Planner/Financial Advisor), and Steve South (Retired).

The Board of Directors comprises professionals like Stephen Drake (RBC Wealth Management), Mike Gorman (Retired), Jeff Gorski (PFS Group), David Hardin (Retired, and DFW Chapter Board Chairman), Clay Morel (ProStaff/Atterro), Dan Patrick (KSEV Radio), Ned Piedmont, Bill Shank (Shank Wealth Management), Ross Astramecki (Insperity), Jessica Forsdick (Greenwood Realty), Connie Niehaus (Morgan Stanley), MJ Becher, and Barbara Garney (Retired). The DFW Chapter Board includes Cory Stone (CEO, Ultimate Choice Contracting), Jennifer Green-Moneta (CEO of LiveEcho Marketing), and Amber Stilwell (Senior Escrow, Texas Heritage Land Title).

Recent Leadership Changes

The organization has identified one new personnel as of August 31, 2025, indicating ongoing adjustments and strengthening of its team.

6. Talent and Growth Indicators

Hiring Trends and Workforce

Be An Angel Fund had 9 employees in 2024. The organization actively recruits volunteers for various opportunities throughout the year in both the Houston and DFW areas, indicating a reliance on community support for program delivery.

Company Growth Trajectory Indicators

Be An Angel Fund demonstrates significant growth through its expanding programs and geographic reach, particularly with the launch of its Dallas/Fort Worth chapter in January 2022. The organization annually serves over 6,000 children with special needs across Texas through its Christmas Gifting Program alone. In fiscal year 2024, the Christmas program served 6,092 special needs children. The child/family assistance program processed 84 applications in 2024, providing 60 hearing aids, 85 adaptive devices, and 6 van conversions. The respite care program provided 12 hours of at-home care monthly for 52 children and summer respite care for 48 children. Additionally, 4 summer activity camps served 341 children and their families, and the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Golf program enabled 2,935 special needs children to participate in mini golf. The organization also provided therapy sessions for 121 children. The increasing demand for adaptive equipment and services signifies a strong need for the organization's offerings and robust potential for continued growth.

7. Social Media Presence and Engagement

Digital Footprint

Be An Angel Fund maintains an active and comprehensive digital footprint across various social media platforms to engage with its community, raise awareness, and promote its mission.
Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/BeAnAngelFund/](https://www.facebook.com/BeAnAngelFund/)
X (Twitter): [https://twitter.com/BeAnAngelFund](https://twitter.com/BeAnAngelFund)
Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/beanangelfund/](https://www.instagram.com/beanangelfund/)
YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-D2X8X3X8X3X8X3X8X3X8X3A](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-D2X8X3X8X3X8X3X8X3X8X3A)
LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/be-an-angel-fund](https://www.linkedin.com/company/be-an-angel-fund)

Brand Messaging and Positioning

Key messaging emphasizes improving the quality of life for children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness. The organization regularly shares news updates, heartwarming success stories of the children it helps, and information about upcoming events and fundraising initiatives. This content strategy reinforces its mission and demonstrates the tangible impact of its work.

Community Engagement Strategies

Through its social media channels, Be An Angel Fund actively engages its community by sharing impactful stories and encouraging participation in events and fundraising efforts. The organization leverages local media features, such as those in the Hood County News for "Gifts From Angels," to amplify its message and reach a broader audience, highlighting the life-changing power of adaptive equipment for its beneficiaries.

8. Recognition and Awards

Industry Recognition

Be An Angel Fund has achieved a 4-star rating (out of 4) from Charity Navigator, signifying excellent financial health, accountability, and transparency. This rating includes high scores in accountability & finance (90%) and leadership & adaptability (10%). The organization's mission and vision statements received full credit, scoring 10 out of 10 points each from Charity Navigator, which further underscores its strategic clarity and effectiveness.

9. Competitive Analysis

Major Competitors

While a direct "competitor" in the traditional sense is less applicable to a non-profit, Be An Angel Fund operates within a landscape of other charitable organizations aiming to support children with special needs. These may include larger national non-profits with a broader scope or smaller, more localized charities. Key examples of organizations that may vie for similar donor attention, grants, and volunteer support include:

Shriners Hospitals for Children: A national network of hospitals providing specialized medical care for children, often covering conditions requiring adaptive equipment and rehabilitation. Their focus is primarily on medical treatment and surgical interventions.
Make-A-Wish Foundation: While different in core service, this organization grants wishes to children with critical illnesses, which can include experiences or items that might overlap with Be An Angel Fund's mission of improving quality of life for children with special needs.
Local and regional foundations and non-profits: Numerous smaller organizations exist at the state or local level in Texas that provide direct assistance, therapy, or equipment to children with special needs. These can be highly specialized, focusing on specific conditions like autism or cerebral palsy.

Competitive Positioning

Be An Angel Fund differentiates itself through its long history of service (since 1986) and a comprehensive array of programs that extend beyond basic equipment provision. Its offerings include respite care, therapeutic activities like the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Golf program, and the creation of barrier-free recreational opportunities. The organization's focus on low-income children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness, filling critical funding gaps, provides a distinct niche. Its strong community reputation and a high rating from Charity Navigator further bolster its competitive position in the non-profit sector.

10. Market Analysis

Market Overview

The market for services and equipment supporting children with special needs is substantial and continuously growing. This demand is driven by ongoing diagnoses, advancements in medical care that extend lifespans, and the persistent need for adaptive equipment, therapies, and support services. Organizations like Be An Angel Fund are integral in addressing critical funding and service gaps that government programs or private insurance schemes may not fully cover, particularly for low-income families.

Growth Potential

The demand for adaptive equipment and specialized support is year-round and has seen an increase due to medical progress. Be An Angel Fund's service delivery to thousands of children annually, coupled with the expansion of its programs and geographic reach (e.g., the Dallas/Fort Worth chapter), indicates strong growth potential. The organization's commitment to increasing services for low-income special needs children and their families reflects a responsive approach to this growing demand.

Key Market Trends

Increasing Prevalence of Special Needs: There is an ongoing rise in diagnoses of various special needs conditions, requiring sustained support services.
Focus on Inclusion and Accessibility: A growing societal emphasis on inclusive environments is driving demand for accessible playgrounds, facilities, and programs.
Funding Gaps: Significant disparities persist in funding for adaptive equipment and therapies, making non-profits like Be An Angel Fund indispensable.
Technological Advancements in Adaptive Equipment: Continuous innovation in adaptive technologies necessitates organizations to stay updated and provide the latest solutions.

Market Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:
Sustained fundraising efforts in a competitive non-profit landscape.
Navigating complex funding landscapes and demonstrating quantifiable impact to donors.
Keeping pace with the evolving needs and technological advancements in adaptive equipment.

Opportunities:
Expanding geographic reach within Texas and potentially beyond.
Forging new strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, corporations, and community organizations.
Leveraging technology for more efficient service delivery and broader outreach.
Advocating for policy changes that better support children with special needs.

The non-profit sector serving this demographic requires organizations to demonstrate impact, financial accountability, and adaptability. Be An Angel Fund's 4/4 Star rating on Charity Navigator signifies strong financial health and governance practices, providing a solid foundation for capitalizing on these opportunities.

11. Strategic Partnerships

Be An Angel Fund engages in various strategic collaborations to amplify its impact and extend its reach.

School Districts: The organization partners with school districts across Texas for its Holiday Gifting Program and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Golf program, integrating its services directly into educational environments.
Camp For All: A collaboration with facilities like Camp For All enables Be An Angel Fund to provide barrier-free camping experiences, promoting inclusive recreational opportunities for children with special needs.
Corporate Partners: Notable corporate partners include Insperity, The Astros Foundation, and H-E-B, which provide crucial financial and in-kind support, expanding the organization's resources.
Foundations and Government Entities: Be An Angel Fund actively seeks grant opportunities from various foundations, corporations, and government entities to secure stable funding for its diverse programs.
International Collaborations: Its international assistance program involves supporting an orphanage and a school for deaf children in the Dominican Republic, demonstrating a commitment to global humanitarian efforts.

These partnerships are vital for resource mobilization, program delivery, and fostering a broader network of support for children with special needs.

12. Operational Insights

Be An Angel Fund occupies a critical role in addressing the profound need for adaptive equipment and support services for children with multiple disabilities and profound deafness, particularly focusing on low-income families whose needs are often unmet by traditional funding sources.

Competitive Advantages

Long-standing Legacy: Established in 1986, the organization possesses a deep history and extensive experience in the field, fostering trust and a strong community reputation.
Comprehensive Program Array: Beyond providing basic equipment, Be An Angel Fund offers a wide range of programs including respite care, therapeutic activities (S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Golf), and barrier-free recreational opportunities, offering holistic support.
* Demonstrated Impact and Trustworthiness: The organization's annual service to thousands of children and its superb 4-star rating from