What Sandy Hook Promise Programs Are
Sandy Hook Promise is a nonprofit organization founded in 2012 by family members of those killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The organization runs several programs focused on preventing gun violence, improving school safety, and training communities to recognize warning signs. Its primary programs include Know the Signs, Start With Hello, and Say Something, which are used in thousands of schools across the United States. The organization reports having trained millions of students and adults through its prevention programs. Sandy Hook Promise also advocates for state and federal policy changes related to background checks and extreme risk protection orders. Forbes
The Sandy Hook Promise programs are delivered through a mix of in-person training, digital curriculum, and public awareness campaigns. The Know the Signs programs teach youth and adults to identify indicators of potential violence and intervene before a crisis occurs. Start With Hello focuses on reducing social isolation among students, while Say Something trains individuals to report warning signs to trusted adults or anonymous systems. The organization partners with school districts, law enforcement agencies, and community groups to expand program reach. Sandy Hook Promise publishes annual impact reports summarizing participation numbers and program outcomes.
Funding, Revenue, and Financial Structure
Sandy Hook Promise operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies on donations, grants, corporate sponsorships, and foundation support. The organization has received funding from major philanthropic foundations, corporate partners, and individual donors. Its financial disclosures show a mix of program services revenue, contributions, and investment income. Sandy Hook Promise allocates funds primarily to program delivery, training materials, public awareness campaigns, and administrative operations. SEC EDGAR
Independent charity evaluators such as Charity Navigator and GuideStar have assessed Sandy Hook Promise based on financial health, accountability, and transparency. The organization typically scores well on measures of program expense ratio and governance practices. Sandy Hook Promise discloses its Form 990 filings annually, which are available through the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search. Financial data shows consistent growth in total revenue over recent years, driven by increased public attention to school safety and gun violence prevention. The organization also benefits from partnerships with companies that provide in-kind support for technology and training platforms.
Program Reach, Impact, and Partnerships
Sandy Hook Promise programs have been implemented in thousands of schools and community organizations across all 50 states. The organization reports that its trainings have reached millions of participants since inception. Independent evaluations of the Say Something and Know the Signs programs indicate increased awareness of warning signs and higher rates of intervention by peers and adults. Sandy Hook Promise partners with school districts, mental health organizations, and law enforcement agencies to tailor programs to local needs. Forbes
The organization collaborates with technology companies to develop anonymous reporting systems and digital training tools used in schools. Sandy Hook Promise also engages in legislative advocacy at the state and federal levels, supporting measures such as universal background checks and red flag laws. Program data is used to refine training content and measure outcomes over time. Sandy Hook Promise continues to expand its programs internationally, adapting materials for use in other countries facing similar challenges with youth violence and social isolation. Forbes