Ground Zero Ministries Inc
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
What it says it does
Ground Zero is the point of impact where life-changing experiences and authentic relationships spark transformation - where teenagers discover Christ, their true identity and the courage to live a life of purpose and direction.
- Income
- $941,636
- Spending
- $1.0 million
- Spent on programs
- 76%
- Reserves
- -1 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- donations and private grants, 54%
- Employees
- 9
- Volunteers
- 55
- Highest pay
- $122,714, president
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
Weak: 44 out of 100. Higher than 11% of charities in its peer group (youth development, $250k to $1m).
Reserves
0 of 35Spendable reserves are negative: it owes or has committed more than it holds.
Debt
10 of 20It owes 32% of what it owns.
Living within its means
4 of 15Spending exceeded income by 7% of income.
Income trend
15 of 15Income rose 19% on the year before.
Spending floor
15 of 1576% of spending went to programs and raising each dollar of donations cost 26 cents.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
Good: 84 out of 100. Higher than 72% of charities in its peer group (youth development, $250k to $1m).
Independent board
18 of 253 of 4 voting board members are independent.
Conflict of interest policy
15 of 15Has a written conflict of interest policy.
Whistleblower policy
8 of 8Has a written whistleblower policy.
Record keeping policy
7 of 7Has a 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.
Pay set independently
5 of 5Sets its chief executive's pay through independent review and comparison.
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 June 30, 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 (1)
- $765,927 spent. Ground Zero is the point of impact where life-changing experiences and authentic relationships spark transformation - where teenagers discover Christ, their true identity and the courage to live a life of purpose and direction.Ground Zero is a place where every teenager can go, belong and grow. Through life-changing experiences and nurturing relationships, we make a positive impact in the lives of today's teenagers, cultivating their faith and transforming their futures. Values1. Relational BelongingTransformation begins with authentic relationships. We pursue students personallylearning their stories, showing up consistently, and building trust over time. Through these relationships, students experience genuine care and find a place where they truly belong.2. Truth & IdentityRooted in the truth of Scripture, we see every student through the lens of God's designnot their mistakes or brokenness. With grace and compassion, we help students discover their identity in Christ and the hope found in Him.3. Intentional ExcellenceWe steward every opportunity, resource, and relationship with intentional carepursuing excellence that honors God and reflects His character. We pursue quality and relevance in everything we do, meeting students where they are and communicating the Gospel with clarity.4. Courageous FaithWe count the cost, but we also count on God. We refuse to shrink the vision or settle for what feels safe or familiar. Trusting Him beyond our limitations, we step forward in bold obedience innovating, taking new ground, and reaching students others might overlook.5. Multiplying ImpactWhen leaders are raised up and released, impact grows. Through intentional investment in students and volunteers, influence multiplies and the reach of the Gospel extends far beyond one ministry team. OUR PROGRAMSGZiGZi is a high-energy weekly gathering that is all about building relationships. Teenagers can hang out with their friends, enjoy a live DJ, grab food in Top Nosh, get a coffee drink at the GZ Coffee Shop and engage in interactive experiences. Teenagers also hear from a dynamic communicator and participate in group discussion about a relevant topic or issue they face. GZi is the place to be each week, a place where teenagers can belong and grow in a supportive, fun environment.iEventsiEvents are high-energy entertainment experiences that teenagers won't be able to stop talking about. We bring together nationally known bands, artists, performers, athletes and entertainers to create unforgettable experiences that deliver world-class entertainment with a clear gospel message. iEvents will capture teenager's attention, and will forever change their life! School Assemblies Ground Zero school assemblies are provided at no cost as a blessing to our local middle and high schools. Communicators include nationally known bands, artists, performers, athletes and entertainers, delivering powerful and positive messages. These assemblies do not include a faith-based message, but rather a positive message with speakers skilled at engaging diverse school environments.EQUIP Ground Zero MagazineThe GZ Magazine, a monthly publication serving as a comprehensive guide to all the happenings at Ground Zero. It features a daily devotional and series memory verse from the ongoing series at GZi, ensuring spiritual nourishment throughout the week. Branded to align with the current series, the Ground Zero Magazine provides a cohesive experience for readers. In addition to spiritual content, it offers insights into coffee shop specials, Stage Left specials, and newly released merchandise. Readers can stay informed about upcoming events and enjoy interviews with Christian artists. With contributions from youth pastors and national youth communicators, The Ground Zero Magazine aims to help readers deepen their relationship with Christ. It serves as a one-stop resource to get involved in the GZ community and grow spiritually.iGroupsiGroups are consistent, dedicated groups of teenagers that are led by caring adults. iGroups give teenagers a chance to build safe relationships and navigate faith and life together. In addition, teenagers have opportunities to participate in outings to strengthen relationships throughout the year. iWeekendiWeekend events are one-day weekend events or overnight retreats that help teenagers strengthen their relationship with God and others through a unique experience. iWeekend events feature life changing communicators, engaging activities and memorable faith-defining moments as students get away from daily life and go deeper in their faith.SEND iGrowiGrow is a weekly experience focused on developing teenagers' faith and unleashing their leadership potential. Time is spent exploring the Bible and discovering what it has to say about their lives, while learning to serve in different areas of the ministry, such as GZ Coffee Shop (coffee and pastries), Top Nosh (food prep and service), Production (sound, lights, visuals), Stage Left (merchandise), First Impressions (student check in and first time guests), Interactions (organizing and leading games) and more.iLeaders Ground Zero thrives on teenagers' involvement in the ministry. iLeaders are middle and high school students using their gifts and passion to impact their peers, their campus, their community, and their world. Ground Zero is committed to raising up this generation of leaders with coaching, training, mentoring and support. CommUNITYiWorshipiWorship is a worship experience featuring nationally known speakers and powerful worship, all centered on helping students grow in their faith. At iWorship events, we address a relevant topic while also presenting opportunities for teeangers to begin or grow in their relationship with Christ. There's no charge for this worship experience, but you must sign up to secure your place at this transformative event. Youth Worker DinnerGet ready for an evening of inspiration and connection at the Ground Zero Youth Wo
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 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 October 13, 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 June 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 2002.
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 October 21, 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.