Jesus Frees Ministries
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
What it says it does
To team people and resources to reach the world with the freeing power of Jesus Christ
- Income
- $272,477
- Spending
- $268,688
- Spent on programs
- 88%
- Reserves
- 1.5 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- donations and private grants, 100%
- Employees
- 1
- Highest pay
- $30,006, executive dir.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
Good: 72 out of 100. Higher than 42% of charities in its peer group (international, $250k to $1m).
Reserves
10 of 35Spendable reserves would cover 1.5 months of spending.
Debt
20 of 20It owes -2% of what it owns.
Living within its means
12 of 15Income exceeded spending by 1% of income.
Income trend
15 of 15Income rose 48% on the year before.
Spending floor
15 of 1588% of spending went to programs and raising each dollar of donations cost 0 cents.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
Weak: 21 out of 100. Higher than 1% of charities in its peer group (international, $250k to $1m).
Independent board
5 of 250 of 8 voting board members are independent.
Conflict of interest policy
0 of 15Reports no written conflict of interest policy.
Whistleblower policy
0 of 8Reports no written whistleblower policy.
Record keeping policy
0 of 7Reports no written policy on keeping and destroying records.
Board minutes
0 of 5Reports that it does not keep minutes of board meetings.
Board sees the tax return
0 of 10Did not give the board a copy of this return before filing it.
Pay set independently
0 of 5Reports no independent review process for its chief executive's pay.
Independent check of accounts
6 of 15Its accounts were not audited or reviewed by an independent accountant.
No reported misuse
10 of 10Reports no diversion of assets, excess benefits or loans to insiders.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Impact evidence
Describes programs. Its tax return describes what it does but we have found no measurable results in it.
Programs described in its return (17)
- $109,888 spent. Vehicle and Transportation Costs for JFM Kenyan Projects and Evangelism To support ministry and outreach in remote areas, funds were raised to purchase two late-model Land Cruiser Vehicles, replacing two aging, well-worn vehicles. Extensive inspections were preformed on the new vehicles and a turbo timer, tracking system, and new brakes were purchased. Insurance was obtained on all the JFM vehicles, and regular service and maintenance were preformed. A cylinder head was replaced, and new tires were purchased for the older vehicle.
- $33,930 spent. JFM Kenyan Headquarters: Building Project The Kenyan Government's building department issued the occupancy certificate for JFM's mission center at JFM Headquarters, and inspection fees were paid. The JFM work crew cemented the outer courtyard, constructed a stone wall, constructed gates,and painted the exterior of the building. The kitchen was tiled, cabinets built, and an industrial sink and stove were purchased. Men's and women's bathrooms were tiled, and toilets and showeres were installed. Two washing machine/dryer units were purchased. Cabinets and sinks were installed in each room. In addition, a self-contained bungalow for long-term missionary guests has been completed. These two buildings strenghten JFM's ability to host mission teams and JFM conferences. Several construction tools were purchased for JFM's ongoing building projects. A new water pump for the well was purchased, and a large baptismal tank was constructed, enabling believers to publicly declare their faith. A waterline was laid for the secondary water source, which is expected to be completed in 2026. All this work provided employment for 12 kenyans and helped them support their families. JFM pays 3 watchmen and three full-time kenyan employees who manage the office and 20-acre headquarters compound. The mission center can sleep over 35 people, and the hall can accommodate large groups for teaching conferences and ministry meetings; it now serves as a hub for discipleship and outreach.Tools and Repairs Tools purchased: table saw, saw blades, sanding discs, grinder, grinding discs, cutting discs,pick handles, safety glasses, work gloves, and security lights. One of the generators was repaired.
- $30,444 spent. Student sponsorships for Underprivileged Kenyan Children JFM's charity to children continued through our faithful JFM sponsors. 95 less fortunate students, ranging from Kindergarten to University, received assistance with mandatory school fees. This includes students' school fees, lunch fees, boarding fees (where applicable), personal hygiene needs, uniforms, shoes, books, writing materials, and transportation. College and Bible school students received accommodations. This assistance gives these needy children and youth hope and the opportunity to pursue their education. Annual meetings were held with the students to evaluate their performance and school needs and to give encouragement and opportunities for written communication with their USA sponsors. Student Breakdown: 10 Pre-Primary, 17-Primary, 53-High School, 9-College, 2 University, 3 Bible College, 1-Special Needs.
- $24,235 spent. Executive Director: Work Hours Toward Kenya Projects Salary for 52 Weeks- $30005.77 Salary per weeks: $577.03 Vacation 1 weekAdministrative Work while3 in the USA 5 weeks $577.03 x 5 = $2,885.15Administrative Work while in Kenya 4 weeks $577.03 x 4 = $2,308.12Project Work for Kenya 42 weeks $577.03 x 43 = $24,812.12
- $13,202 spent. JFM Sponsored Entapipi Primary School, Chumvi, Kenya Our School completed its 7th year serving the impoverished children of the Chumvi Village. In January 2025, a first-grade class was launched, bringing the total enrollment to 114 students. These children receive free, quality education and 2 meals a day. An excellent 1st-grade teacher and a watchman were hired, bringing the paid staff to eight. 35 desks and chairs were constructed to prepare for the incoming 2nd-grade class in January 2026. School uniforms were made for all grade levels. Electricity and Wi-Fi were funded; curriculum and students' workbooks were supplied; cleaning supplies, kitchen supplies, new dishes and spoons, storybooks, toys, composition books, coloring pages, pens, pencils, and chalk were purchased.26 kindergarten students successfully graduated and moved on to 1st grade at JFM.The two new classrooms started in 2024 were completed. Maintenance, painting, and repairs were done. A ceiling was built in the hallway.
- $11,874 spent. JFM Evangelism: Church Support, Training, Bible School, Outreach, and Pastors' Support Assistance to JFM ChurchesIn 2025, Jesus frees Ministries witnessed God powerfully at work, transforming lives and communities in remarkable ways. 3 new churches were started in Malanga, Wamba, and Meru, Kenya. JFM now has 16 churches serving the people of Kenya and bringing the hope of the Gospel to new areas.The JFM missionaries taught regulary in the JFM church branches, schools, and surrounding villages. The JFM pastors organized mission outreaches and evangelism in their respective villages. Regular evangelism outreaches were sent to the remote village of Naiborkeju, a prospective JFM church plant. Special JFM outreaches were organized by the Luanda, Liasho, Katunga, Oloruko, Kisima, and Lokusero-B churches. 181 people received Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, and 47 believers were baptized. To further equip God's people, 78 Bibles, provided by the Voice of the Martyrs organization, were distributed. We rejoice that JFM sent three JFM pastors to Bible school to invest in biblically grounded leadership. Monthly support was given to our 20 struggling JFM Pastors, who continually sacrifce for the sake of the Gospel. This support helped them better serve their congregations and families. After 3 years and several trips to the Capital, the Kenyan goverment approved JFM to perform marriages in Kenya. JFM paid the fees, and the government approved two JFM-ordained ministers as Kenyan "Marriage Officers, and JFM officiated its first wedding.Mission Teams: Steve and Marissa Barkemeyer served JFM in Kenya for 4 month. They taught weekly Sunday school lessons and morning devotions with the work crew. They made improvements at the JFM Headquarters by providing general assistance with daily work.2025 Spiritual Statistics 181 Kenyans responded to the Gospel 47 believers were baptized 3 new churches were started in Malanga, Wamba, and Meru, Kenya 78 Bibles in Kenyan languages were given during this reporting period 5 Audio Bibles in Kenyan languages were given during this reporting period 825 Believers were taught the Bible and discipled in JFM Churches and Mission Center.
- $4,718 spent. Charity Relief for the Special Needs of the Less Fortunate Across the 16 JFM churches, food and medical relief have been provided to destitute widows, the elderly, the disabled, the sick, and fatherless children. Assistance for hospital bills, weddings, and funerals was also given. 11 needy families received monthly support and 3 families were assisted extensively at Christmas.
- $2,642 spent. Kenya Office Expenses Include: Power-Water Fees-Phone-Wi-Fi-Electronics-Maintenance Headquarters Insurance-CPA Service-Banking Fees-Post Office Box Kenya Office Staff-Administrative Assistant-Kenya office stationery
- $1,938 spent. JFM Church Building Projects: The JFM work crew constructed a new building for the JFM Katunga church to replace the former structure, which had been destroyed by a storm. The JFM work crew also made major repairs at the JFM Nadungoro church. The final installment was made for the JFM Kisima church property. A land registration fee was paid for the JFM Oloruko church, and JFM made monthly rent payments for the JFM Malanga and Luanda churches.
- $1,866 spent. Kenya Operating Expenses Include: Registrations-Licenses-Kenya Missionary Work Permits-Accounting Fees
- $1,358 spent. JFM Tents for Conferences and Evangelism Tent maintenance, cleaning, and repair for JFM's large tent (50 feet x 140 feet) and the two smaller tents (20' x 30') were done. The JFM tent technician made repairs and supervised the setup and cleaning of the tent. The tent storage fee was paid.
- $609 spent. JFM Gifted Academy at the JFM Luanda Church Enrollment at the JFM Lunda Church Preschool/Kindergarten reached 25 students. 6 kindergarten students graduated. Salaries for the teachers and the teacher's assistant were subsidized.
- 2025 Volunteers: USA and Kenya 109 Total VolunteersJFM USA and JFM Kenya Board Members and Spouses:14 Rev. Cheryl Freese, Pst Thomas and Jenny Lowery, Rev. Sherry Cox, Karen and Bill Donehue, Tom and Sue Bourdage, Rich and Linda Mayer, Jesse and Carrie Segrist, Rev David Kefa, Rev. Ruben KilokuHosts in USA:43 Ms. Benline, Mr and Mrs Danson, Mr and Mrs Browning, Ms Thorbeck, Mr and Mrs Webb, Ms Tertrou, Mr and Mrs Martinez, Ms Smith, Pst and Mrs Pool, Pst Hortsch, Pst and Mrs Carr, Pst and Mrs Dennis, Pst and Mrs South, Mr and Mrs Auringer, Mr. Jefferies, Ms Ebejer, Mr and Mrs Price, Mr and Mrs Shoemake, Dr and Dr Armstrong, Mr and Mrs Batchman, Mr and Mrs Magathan, Mr and Mrs Rogers, Mr Turner, Pst Ventura, Pst and Mrs Garret, Mr and Mrs GrizmerDrivers To and From Airports:7 Martinez, Janet Webb, Ken Webb, Hyodo, Amkobe, StanbaughVolunteers at Conferences and Meetings:28 Media People-Table Set UpInterpreters:15 Jackson, Ian, Edwin, Johnson, Dave, Naomi, Maina, Samuel, Janet, Ruben, Tony, Musa, John, Paul M., MorrisMission Team Members:2 Steve and Marissa Barkemeyer
- JFM Board Volunteer Hours Total JFM Board Hours: 2130 HoursBoard Meetings: In-Person and Electronic (4hours x 7 bd Members) 28 HoursCheryl Freese-Chair 1494 Hours Volunteer work in Kenya: Prepping for projects and missions = 892 hours Newsletters Writing = 123 hours Donor Correspondence = 315 hours Preparation for Presentations 67 hours Presentations to groups and individuals = 97 hoursThomas Lowery-Vice Chair 7 Hours Classrooms FundraisingSharon Cox-Secretary 24 Hours Newsletter editing = 13 hours Budget Committee = 16 hous Board Meeting Minutes = 5 hoursKaren Danehue-Treasurer 528 hours Bookkeeping = 215 hours Generating & mailing donation receipts = 83 hours Post Office and banking = 88 hours Correspondence with donors = 42 hours Christmas Cards & End of Year Statements = 14 hours Generating reports = 72 Editing Newsletters = 6 hours Overseeing JFM stationery & stamps = 5 hours Budget Committee = 6Thomas Bourdage-Director 18 hours Post office = 18 hoursJesse Segrist-Director 6 hours Website Management Rich Mayer-Director 25 hours Computer, Website and Software Assitance
- Items Purchased in America for Kenya Mission projects - None
- Project Funds Sent to Kenya from Jesus Frees Ministries USA: $217654.49Balance Remaining from the last calendar year 2024: $1223.36Total Funds Available: $218,877.85
- Total Funds Spent On Projects In Kenya $212,468.15Balance Remaining in the Kenyan Bank on 12-31-2025 $6,409.70
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Legitimacy checks
Is it registered with the IRS? Passed.
Listed in the IRS master file of tax-exempt organizations as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Has the IRS revoked its tax-exempt status? Passed.
Not on the IRS automatic revocation list.
Source: Automatic revocation of exemption list, Internal Revenue Service, file dated November 6, 2026.
Are donations tax-deductible? Passed.
On the IRS list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
Source: Publication 78 data: organizations eligible for tax-deductible contributions, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending December 2025.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.
Recognized by the IRS since December 2006.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Is it in good standing with state regulators? Passed.
Not on California's list of charities barred from soliciting. Other states are not yet checked.
Source: May Not Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes list, California Attorney General, Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, file dated November 4, 2026.
Ratings and checks are our reading of public records, using the published method. They are not a statement about anyone's honesty. If you work for this organization, you can send corrections or results, confirm you want gifts through Veridonate, or ask to be removed from giving.