Reporting Period

January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025

Organizational Status

The Land Hermit Crab Owners Society (LHCOS) operated throughout 2025 as a nonprofit organization recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

LHCOS continued to function as a mission-driven educational and advocacy organization focused on ethical land hermit crab care and conservation.

Governance & Board Oversight

During the 2025 reporting period:

  • LHCOS was governed by an active volunteer Board of Directors
  • The Board provided strategic oversight, fiduciary stewardship, and policy governance
  • Board review and approval were required for significant policy changes and program decisions

The Board did not manage day-to-day operations but maintained oversight consistent with nonprofit governance best practices.

Policy Development & Review

In 2025, LHCOS:

  • Established and formalized core governance and community policies
  • Reviewed and updated policies related to community management, participation standards, and ethical conduct
  • Implemented clearer definitions and eligibility standards for Approved Sellers and Approved Rescues
  • Created a structured process for documenting and archiving policy changes

These efforts were undertaken to improve clarity, consistency, and accountability across LHCOS-managed spaces.

Community Management & Moderation

LHCOS continued to manage online community spaces in support of education and responsible discussion.

During 2025:

  • Community moderation was active and guided by Board-approved policies
  • Platform-specific rules were clarified to reduce misuse, misinformation, and promotional abuse
  • Moderation actions were taken to protect animal welfare, educational integrity, and community safety

LHCOS does not publish individual moderation actions or enforcement records.

Programs & Activities

During the 2025 reporting period, LHCOS supported and operated mission-aligned programs and initiatives focused on:

  • Public education on ethical hermit crab care
  • Advocacy related to conservation and welfare standards
  • Community guidance and resource sharing
  • Collaboration with aligned nonprofit and educational efforts

Program details and eligibility criteria are published separately on this website.

Relationships & Disclosures

LHCOS maintained transparency regarding organizational relationships and content sourcing throughout 2025.

Educational references, collaborations, and community standards were clearly distinguished from partnerships or endorsements. Disclosures are documented on the Sources, Relationships & Disclosures page.

Financial & Legal Transparency

As required by law, LHCOS maintained compliance with federal nonprofit disclosure obligations during 2025.

Information regarding IRS Form 990 availability and nonprofit determination status is provided through the Policies & Governance section of this website.

Ongoing Commitment

LHCOS remains committed to continuous improvement in governance, transparency, and ethical standards. Policies and practices are reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with nonprofit best practices and the evolving needs of the community we serve.

Access to Additional Information

For further information about LHCOS governance and accountability, please see:

Questions

Questions regarding this Annual Transparency Statement may be submitted through the official contact channels listed on this website.