As a community-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Catapult Outreach relies on the goodwill and active engagement of community members to ensure its ongoing success. We uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability, recognizing the importance of public trust in our mission.
Our dedicated board of directors comprises accomplished community members responsible for overseeing our executive director and administering programs within a carefully planned yearly budget. Additionally, we benefit from valuable feedback and guidance provided by members of the advisory council, consisting of distinguished professionals and leaders from both the business and nonprofit sectors.
Financial Responsibility:
All Catapult Outreach programs are offered free of charge to those in need, and our financial support comes from a mix of grants, contracts, fee services, donations, and community fundraising events. Although our current operating budget is below $750,000, we prioritize accountability even without audited financials.
Audit Requirements:
While we are not required to undergo audits by state law in South Carolina, certain circumstances may necessitate an audit in North Carolina, particularly if receiving state funds. According to N.C.G.S. 159-40, a non-governmental entity that receives $500,000 or more annually in state funds must submit a “Yellow Book” Audit conducted by a CPA, including a Schedule of Federal and State Awards. This complete report is due within 9 months of the organization’s year-end. It’s important to note that an A-133 audit may serve as a substitute for the Yellow Book audit. Additionally, the State Auditor may conduct investigations for nonprofits receiving $1,000 or more in state grant funds, and local grants may require independent audits for nonprofits receiving at least $1,000 in local grants. We remain committed to meeting these requirements and ensuring transparency in our financial practices.
Financial Information and Annual Report
CAS Consultants LLC prepares financial statements for Catapult Outreach.
2023 Coming Soon
Our Priorities
Catapult Outreach Inc.’s commitment is rooted in advancing racial equity as a foundational element in the collective efforts to eradicate sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. In pursuit of this mission, the organization places a particular emphasis on expanding economic justice and financial advocacy for survivors of these forms of violence, viewing these initiatives not only as essential support but also as potent tools for violence prevention.
Advancing Racial Equity:
Catapult Outreach Inc. places racial equity at the forefront of its mission, recognizing the interconnectedness between systemic racial disparities and the prevalence of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
Ending Violence Through Economic Justice:
The organization acknowledges the critical role economic justice plays in preventing and addressing violence. By expanding economic opportunities and providing financial advocacy, Catapult aims to empower survivors and break the cycle of abuse.
Focus Areas
Transitional Housing and Support Services:
Catapult’s core initiatives include providing transitional housing and support services. This encompasses creating safe and supportive living environments for survivors transitioning from crisis to stability, addressing their immediate needs and fostering healing.
Economic Empowerment Initiatives:
The organization is actively engaged in projects that go beyond transitional housing, specifically focusing on economic empowerment for survivors. This involves creating initiatives such as job training, employment opportunities, and financial education to empower survivors towards long-term independence.
Underserved Populations
Projects Tailored to Underserved Communities:
Catapult Outreach Inc. is dedicated to serving underserved populations through its transitional housing and support services projects. This includes communities that historically face barriers in accessing housing and support resources.
Cultural Competency and Sensitivity:
The organization ensures that its transitional housing and support services are culturally competent and sensitive, recognizing and respecting the unique needs and experiences of survivors from diverse backgrounds.
Overall Impact:
Catapult Outreach Inc.’s strategic focus on racial equity, economic justice, and projects serving underserved populations through transitional housing and support services reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing and preventing violence. By providing holistic support that encompasses both immediate needs and long-term empowerment, the organization aims to create lasting change and contribute to a society where everyone can live free from the impacts of violence.
Overview of First-Year Achievements:
In the first year of operation, Catapult successfully initiated its program to address The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) crimes, focusing on serving individuals from underserved populations.
Notable achievements which will include provide specific accomplishments, statistics, or success stories.
Serving 25 Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault:
Catapult has directly impacted the lives of 25 victims by providing essential support, counseling, and resources tailored to their needs.
Teal Online Sexual Assault Event:
Catapult leveraged the power of the internet to host a Teal Online Sexual Assault Event. This virtual platform provided a safe and accessible space for survivors and community members to engage in discussions, share experiences, and access valuable resources related to sexual assault. The online format allowed for widespread participation, ensuring that individuals, regardless of geographical location, could join and benefit from the educational content and support offered.
Strengthening Families Values Forum:
Catapult organized the Strengthening Families Values Forum, which demonstrated a commitment to education, awareness, and the promotion of healthy family dynamics. This forum served as a consistent platform where families could come together to gain valuable insights, engage in educational discussions, and establish a safe space for open dialogues on domestic violence (DV). By focusing on strengthening family values, Catapult contributed to fostering resilience and prevention within the community.
Purple In-Person Event – Voices of DV:
The Purple In-Person Event orchestrated by Catapult was a powerful gathering where the voices of victims of domestic violence (DV) took center stage. This event provided a physical space for survivors to share their stories, breaking the silence around DV. Notably, the inclusive atmosphere encouraged participants to open up and share their own experiences. The purple-themed event created a visual symbol of solidarity, emphasizing the collective commitment to raising awareness and supporting survivors within the community.
Overcomers Anthologies:
Catapult facilitated the creation of anthologies, amplifying the voices of overcomers. Survivors shared their inspiring stories, contributing to a broader narrative of resilience and empowerment.
Community Outreach and Support Groups:
Catapult actively engaged with the community by providing faith-based knowledge and establishing support groups within congregations. This initiative aimed to create a safe space for dialogue and assistance.
Building Relationships with Law Enforcement:
Catapult forged new relationships with law enforcement agencies, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding. This partnership enhances the support network available to survivors and promotes a coordinated response to domestic violence and sexual assault.
Radio Marketing Campaign:
Catapult initiated a successful radio marketing campaign, leveraging the airwaves to discuss the critical issue of domestic violence. By being on the airwaves, Catapult not only raised awareness but also contributed to the broader community dialogue on this pressing social concern.
Continued Expansion Plan:
Catapult is committed to expanding its efforts to further address the needs of underserved populations affected by VAWA crimes.
Projects Primarily Serving Underserved Populations:
The proposed projects are designed to primarily serve individuals from underserved populations who are victims of VAWA crimes.
Detailed Plan Identifying Underserved Populations:
Catapult has developed a detailed plan that identifies the specific underserved populations being addressed. This includes [mention specific communities, ethnicities, or demographics].
Specific Services to Victims within Proposed Project Service Area:
The project outlines a range of specific services tailored to the needs of victims within the proposed project service area, including advocacy, counseling, legal assistance, referral voucher housing assistance, etc.
Identification of Gaps in Current Services and Barriers:
Through a comprehensive needs assessment, Catapult has identified gaps in current services, including:
Limited Access to Emergency Shelter Services:
Gaps: There is a shortage of emergency shelters in the rural areas of Chester, especially for victims of VAWA crimes, leaving individuals without immediate safe havens.
Inadequate Legal Support and Advocacy:
Gaps: Victims, particularly African Americans in rural Chester, face challenges in accessing legal assistance and advocacy services, impacting their ability to navigate the legal system effectively.
Lack of Culturally Tailored Mental Health Services:
Gaps: Existing mental health services do not sufficiently address the cultural nuances and unique needs of African American survivors in the rural community.
Limited Transportation Services:
Gaps: Rural areas often lack adequate transportation infrastructure, making it difficult for victims to access support services, attend court hearings, or travel to shelters.
Scarce Economic Empowerment Programs:
Gaps: There is a lack of programs focused on empowering victims economically, particularly those facing poverty in the African American community in rural Chester.
And barriers that victims face when seeking services include:
Stigma and Cultural Sensitivity:
Barriers: Cultural stigma and a lack of culturally sensitive services may discourage African American victims from seeking assistance, fearing judgment or misunderstanding.
Limited Awareness of Available Services:
Barriers: Victims may not be aware of the services that exist due to limited outreach and awareness campaigns in the rural areas, particularly within impoverished African American communities.
Financial Constraints:
Barriers: Individuals facing poverty may struggle with financial constraints, hindering their ability to access resources and services that could help them escape abusive situations.
Fear of Retaliation:
Barriers: Victims, especially in close-knit rural communities, may fear retaliation from their abusers or community members, deterring them from seeking help.
Geographical Isolation:
Barriers: The rural nature of Chester creates geographical isolation, making it challenging for victims to physically access support services, attend court appointments, or participate in group therapy sessions.
Catapult is committed to addressing these identified gaps and barriers by tailoring its services to the specific needs of the African American community in rural Chester, implementing targeted outreach efforts, and establishing partnerships that enhance accessibility for victims facing economic challenges.
Demonstrated Strong Partnerships:
Catapult has been attempting to establish strong partnerships with organizations that have a proven history of providing services to each identified underserved community.
These partnerships include Palmetto and Safe Passage, bringing expertise and cultural sensitivity to the proposed projects.
Budget for a 36-Month Period:
We have a detailed budget of $550,000 for the 36-month period, outlining allocations for key components such as program implementation, staff, outreach, and ongoing evaluation. To provide interim housing and services that move survivors and their children into safe permanent housing.
Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms:
Catapult has implemented robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure that the services provided effectively address the needs of the targeted underserved populations.
Community Engagement and Input:
Catapult recognizes the importance of community engagement and seeks continuous input from the communities it serves to adapt and improve its services over time.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement:
Catapult is committed to a continuous improvement approach, regularly reviewing its programs, and adapting strategies based on feedback and evolving community needs. These achievements collectively reflect Catapult’s commitment to addressing domestic violence and sexual assault comprehensively. The organization’s multifaceted approach includes direct victim support, community education and awareness initiatives, and strategic collaborations with key stakeholders like law enforcement. Catapult’s impact extends beyond immediate services, contributing to a broader cultural shift toward understanding, preventing, and responding effectively to domestic violence and sexual assault. The three outlets, Catapult effectively utilized online platforms, forums, and in-person events to address sexual assault, strengthen family values, and amplify the voices of DV survivors. Each outlet played a unique role in reaching diverse audiences, fostering education, and creating spaces for meaningful conversations that contribute to the prevention and healing of those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault.