In the United States, ownership of wildlife is vested in the public, with state and federal governmental agencies responsible for managing wildlife in the public interest of its citizens, and with wildlife rehabilitation considered a public service. Many wildlife rehabilitation practices are nonprofit corporations recognized by IRS as operating for charitable purposes rather than for profit. Contributions to such organizations are tax-deductible, a potential advantage for prospective donors.

Despite having a charitable mission, for various reasons that included limitations in size and scope, we decided not to incorporate Flight Plan, but instead to keep things simple, return to our mom-and-pop-shop roots, and operate the endeavor as a sole proprietorship. In making that decision, it was taken as a given that most of the financing would be our personal responsibility, and in 2024, we provided nearly 2/3 of the funding available for Flight Plan’s use.

Unlike a for-profit business venture, Flight Plan Rehab does not market products or customer services, and unlike a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, cannot issue receipts for tax purposes in return for contributions. However, gifts from supporters in solidarity with our mission are gratefully accepted! Some ways to lend a helping hand are shown below:

Thank you!