We aim to maintain an organizational structure where power and decision-making is foremost held by those with lived experience in foster care, but not place the burden of work solely on those with lived experience. We encourage allies and partners to join together to collectively improve the well-being of our foster care alumni community. 

The 1999 Collective is currently in fiscal sponsorship with Open Collective Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Fiscal sponsorship is when an organization holds funds on behalf of smaller projects and are responsible for taxes, accounting, legal compliance, and financial administration, usually in exchange for a fee. Open Collective Foundation receives 8% of 1999 Collective's incoming grants and 5% of individual donations. In exchange, Open Collective Foundation provides a wealth of services, including access to a transparent fundraising platform and budget and the ability to receive tax-deductible contributions through Open Collective Foundation's 501(c)(3) status.

To thoroughly understand our fiscal sponsorship arrangement with Open Collective Foundation, visit our Terms of Fiscal Sponsorship. 1999 Collective's fiscal sponsorship arrangement is “comprehensive,” “direct,” or “Model A” fiscal sponsorship.

As part of comprehensive fiscal sponsorship, 1999 Collective is legally part of Open Collective Foundation. Thus, the Board of Directors for Open Collective Foundation is also the Board of Directors for the 1999 Collective. 1999 Collective's Steering Committee envisions solutions, sets the priorities and does the work of the Collective, and Advisors provide legal, strategic and financial advice.