Seacoast Arts and Cultural Alliance
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
What it says it does
WSCA Radio (106.1 FM) is a volunteer-driven, listener-supported community radio station based in Portsmouth, NH. We broadcast eclectic, locally produced content reflecting the diversity and character of the Seacoast region. WSCA provides a powerful platform for voices rarely heard elsewhere, encourages civic and cultural engagement, and actively strengthens our community's ability to tackle shared challenges.
- Income
- $46,747
- Spending
- $54,045
- Spent on programs
- 96%
- Reserves
- 7.8 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- donations and private grants, 56%
- Employees
- 0
- Volunteers
- 48
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2024, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
Fair: 63 out of 100.
Reserves
28 of 35Spendable reserves would cover 7.8 months of spending.
Debt
20 of 20It owes 0% of what it owns.
Living within its means
0 of 15Spending exceeded income by 16% of income.
Income trend
0 of 15Income fell 46% on the year before.
Spending floor
15 of 1595% of spending went to programs and raising each dollar of donations cost 0 cents.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2024, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
Good: 81 out of 100.
Independent board
25 of 256 of 6 voting board members are independent.
Conflict of interest policy
15 of 15Has a 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
5 of 5Keeps minutes of board meetings.
Board sees the tax return
10 of 10Gave the board a copy of this return before filing it.
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, 2024, 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 (3)
- $39,300 spent. WSCA serves as a vital cultural hub for the Seacoast community, offering a wide range of programming that captures the essence of the region's diverse cultural, educational, and civic spirit. Eclectic Musical and Talk Show Lineup: The station broadcasts a rich tapestry of musical genres including rock, jazz, folk, and hip-hop, alongside engaging talk shows that delve into pressing local and national issues. This mix not only entertains but also informs and provokes thought among listeners, addressing vital topics like environmental conservation, social justice, and civil rights. Locally Produced Content: With a commitment to community-focused broadcasting, WSCA features 35 locally produced shows that reflect the interests and concerns of the Seacoast area. A standout among these is "Seacoast Currents," a program renowned for its in-depth exploration of significant community matters, from women's rights to local governance. Impact on Community Engagement: Through its dynamic programming, WSCA fosters a well-informed community, equipped to engage with and respond to both challenges and opportunities. The station's commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of voices and topics makes it an indispensable resource for residents, enriching the community's cultural and civic life.
- WSCA leverages its broadcasting reach to support and amplify various local nonprofit organizations through strategic partnerships and the airing of public service announcements (PSAs). These collaborations are central to the station's mission to engage with and support the community effectively. Nonprofit Collaborations WSCA collaborates with a variety of local nonprofits, focusing on those that address critical community needs such as food security, health, and social services. Through these partnerships, the station provides on-air time for PSAs that raise awareness of the nonprofits' missions, current initiatives, and community impact. This exposure is crucial in educating the community about available resources and ways to engage with and support these vital causes. Enhancing Community Support Through Broadcasting The station's active role in broadcasting PSAs helps mobilize community support and resources, which is essential for the effectiveness of the nonprofits' programs. By providing a platform for these organizations, WSCA plays a critical role in fostering a network of support that benefits various segments of the population, particularly the underrepresented and those in need. Impact and Outreach These partnerships not only help in resource mobilization but also in creating a more informed and engaged community. WSCA's commitment to these collaborations underscores its role as a community hub and a voice for public service, amplifying efforts that contribute significantly to the local social fabric.
- $12,293 spent. WSCA's Button Factory Stage serves as a dynamic venue for a wide array of local arts and community engagement events, playing a pivotal role in enriching the cultural landscape of the Seacoast region. Cultural and Artistic Showcase: The Button Factory Stage is more than just a performance venue; it is a community catalyst that hosts an eclectic mix of events, from live music performances and art exhibitions to community forums and educational workshops. These events showcase local talent and provide artists and performers with a platform to reach broader audiences, fostering a vibrant cultural environment. Community Engagement and Education: In addition to entertainment, the Button Factory Stage is utilized for community-oriented events that promote social awareness and education. These include training sessions, such as Narcan training, which address important public health issues, and forums that discuss local initiatives and social challenges. The stage acts as a hub for community members to gather, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogues that drive social progress and cohesion. Enhancing Local Engagement: By hosting these diverse events, WSCA ensures that the Button Factory Stage remains a central figure in community engagement, offering a space that not only entertains but also educates and unites. The stage's activities contribute significantly to the cultural and social vitality of the community, making it an essential asset in the Seacoast's cultural and community landscape.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2024, 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 September 7, 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 September 30, 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 September 10, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending December 2024.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.
Recognized by the IRS since January 1989.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 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 October 7, 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.