Coach Ching and Coach Julie started The Sunset Badminton Foundation as a non-profit entity to run alongside, yet independently from, their Sunset Badminton for-profit business. Having a non-profit entity opens so many doors to new opportunities that it just made sense to do. From being able to assist students in financial need with training opportunities and equipment, to offering college scholarships, to renting facilities at discounted rates. What better way to grow the sport of badminton in Arizona than to reach more people than ever before?
Julie has a background in organization and customer service. Having worked in the hospitality field for almost a decade, then shifting to tech as a project manager and then agile practitioner, she excels at organization, process, and attention to detail.
Brandon has been a technology leader for his entire career. He has a decade of experience as a software engineer and another decade in technology leadership in management and executive spaces. He is currently the CTO of a national non-profit. Brandon holds a Master of Public Administration, Master of Computer Science, and a PhD in Public Policy.
Yes, we are. Here is our IRS Determination Letter and our Candid Profile. As a recognized Public Charity, all donations are tax deductible. Our IRS EIN is: 33-2229596
Sunset Badminton, LLC is our for-profit business where we sell supplies, offer training, and provide restringing services. The Sunset Badminton Foundation is a recognized IRS non-profit with a mission to grow the competitive sport of badminton in Arizona, especially to youth, through tools like stipends, grants, coach training, scholarships, and play opportunities.
Each organization is distinct, and there is absolutely no crossover in terms of finances, funding, and operational resources.
Having a non-profit allows us to do a lot more to promote badminton in Arizona than simply selling equipment and training. By being able to accept donations and apply for grants, it enables us to reach more players in more ways. This is especially true for marginalized audiences who do not have access to equipment, training, or facilities.
Let’s be real here; in the US, badminton is largely a privileged sport. Quality facilities are rare and usually expensive. Quality training is even rarer and more expensive. Finally, equipment is quite costly as shuttles have such a short lifespan. It’s the only sport where the main equipment is essentially “disposable” with shuttles lasting a game or two at most. These factors put true badminton out of reach for many people.
Operating a non-profit gives us more opportunities to get badminton into the hands of more people.