﻿<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<Return xmlns="http://www.irs.gov/efile" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.irs.gov/efile" returnVersion="2024v5.5">
  <ReturnHeader binaryAttachmentCnt="0">
    <ReturnTs>2026-07-07T12:04:18-05:00</ReturnTs>
    <TaxPeriodEndDt>2025-09-30</TaxPeriodEndDt>
    <PreparerFirmGrp>
      <PreparerFirmEIN>461498870</PreparerFirmEIN>
      <PreparerFirmName>
        <BusinessNameLine1Txt>BMSS LLC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
      </PreparerFirmName>
      <PreparerUSAddress>
        <AddressLine1Txt>400 MERIDIAN STREET N 201</AddressLine1Txt>
        <CityNm>HUNTSVILLE</CityNm>
        <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
        <ZIPCd>35801</ZIPCd>
      </PreparerUSAddress>
    </PreparerFirmGrp>
    <ReturnTypeCd>990</ReturnTypeCd>
    <TaxPeriodBeginDt>2024-10-01</TaxPeriodBeginDt>
    <Filer>
      <EIN>462455801</EIN>
      <BusinessName>
        <BusinessNameLine1Txt>STERLING CO INC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
      </BusinessName>
      <BusinessNameControlTxt>STER</BusinessNameControlTxt>
      <PhoneNum>2564391575</PhoneNum>
      <USAddress>
        <AddressLine1Txt>PO BOX 1457</AddressLine1Txt>
        <CityNm>GADSDEN</CityNm>
        <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
        <ZIPCd>35902</ZIPCd>
      </USAddress>
    </Filer>
    <BusinessOfficerGrp>
      <PersonNm>KATHY WEST</PersonNm>
      <PersonTitleTxt>CEO</PersonTitleTxt>
      <PhoneNum>2564391975</PhoneNum>
      <SignatureDt>2026-07-07</SignatureDt>
      <DiscussWithPaidPreparerInd>1</DiscussWithPaidPreparerInd>
    </BusinessOfficerGrp>
    <IRSResponsiblePrtyInfoCurrInd>0</IRSResponsiblePrtyInfoCurrInd>
    <PreparerPersonGrp>
      <PreparerPersonNm>WHITNEY R SETNICKY CPA</PreparerPersonNm>
      <PTIN>P02096520</PTIN>
      <PhoneNum>2565472588</PhoneNum>
      <PreparationDt>2026-07-07</PreparationDt>
    </PreparerPersonGrp>
    <TaxYr>2024</TaxYr>
    <BuildTS>2025-03-06 01:10:19Z</BuildTS>
  </ReturnHeader>
  <ReturnData documentCnt="5">
    <IRS990 documentId="RetDoc1038000001" referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1044400001">
      <PrincipalOfficerNm>KATHY WEST</PrincipalOfficerNm>
      <USAddress>
        <AddressLine1Txt>PO BOX 1457</AddressLine1Txt>
        <CityNm>GADSDEN</CityNm>
        <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
        <ZIPCd>35902</ZIPCd>
      </USAddress>
      <GrossReceiptsAmt>35596144</GrossReceiptsAmt>
      <GroupReturnForAffiliatesInd>0</GroupReturnForAffiliatesInd>
      <Organization501c3Ind>X</Organization501c3Ind>
      <WebsiteAddressTxt>N/A</WebsiteAddressTxt>
      <TypeOfOrganizationCorpInd>X</TypeOfOrganizationCorpInd>
      <FormationYr>2013</FormationYr>
      <LegalDomicileStateCd>AL</LegalDomicileStateCd>
      <ActivityOrMissionDesc>TO PROVIDE HEALTHCARE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES PRIMARILY TO THOSE ORGANIZATIONS SERVING MENTALLY DISABLED CITIZENS.</ActivityOrMissionDesc>
      <VotingMembersGoverningBodyCnt>3</VotingMembersGoverningBodyCnt>
      <VotingMembersIndependentCnt>3</VotingMembersIndependentCnt>
      <TotalEmployeeCnt>54</TotalEmployeeCnt>
      <TotalVolunteersCnt>0</TotalVolunteersCnt>
      <TotalGrossUBIAmt>0</TotalGrossUBIAmt>
      <NetUnrelatedBusTxblIncmAmt>0</NetUnrelatedBusTxblIncmAmt>
      <PYContributionsGrantsAmt>0</PYContributionsGrantsAmt>
      <CYContributionsGrantsAmt>0</CYContributionsGrantsAmt>
      <PYProgramServiceRevenueAmt>37589353</PYProgramServiceRevenueAmt>
      <CYProgramServiceRevenueAmt>35303404</CYProgramServiceRevenueAmt>
      <PYInvestmentIncomeAmt>235478</PYInvestmentIncomeAmt>
      <CYInvestmentIncomeAmt>211508</CYInvestmentIncomeAmt>
      <PYOtherRevenueAmt>6158</PYOtherRevenueAmt>
      <CYOtherRevenueAmt>-2286</CYOtherRevenueAmt>
      <PYTotalRevenueAmt>37830989</PYTotalRevenueAmt>
      <CYTotalRevenueAmt>35512626</CYTotalRevenueAmt>
      <PYGrantsAndSimilarPaidAmt>0</PYGrantsAndSimilarPaidAmt>
      <CYGrantsAndSimilarPaidAmt>461893</CYGrantsAndSimilarPaidAmt>
      <PYBenefitsPaidToMembersAmt>0</PYBenefitsPaidToMembersAmt>
      <CYBenefitsPaidToMembersAmt>0</CYBenefitsPaidToMembersAmt>
      <PYSalariesCompEmpBnftPaidAmt>2479238</PYSalariesCompEmpBnftPaidAmt>
      <CYSalariesCompEmpBnftPaidAmt>2892372</CYSalariesCompEmpBnftPaidAmt>
      <PYTotalProfFndrsngExpnsAmt>0</PYTotalProfFndrsngExpnsAmt>
      <CYTotalProfFndrsngExpnsAmt>0</CYTotalProfFndrsngExpnsAmt>
      <CYTotalFundraisingExpenseAmt>0</CYTotalFundraisingExpenseAmt>
      <PYOtherExpensesAmt>32025354</PYOtherExpensesAmt>
      <CYOtherExpensesAmt>31787422</CYOtherExpensesAmt>
      <PYTotalExpensesAmt>34504592</PYTotalExpensesAmt>
      <CYTotalExpensesAmt>35141687</CYTotalExpensesAmt>
      <PYRevenuesLessExpensesAmt>3326397</PYRevenuesLessExpensesAmt>
      <CYRevenuesLessExpensesAmt>370939</CYRevenuesLessExpensesAmt>
      <TotalAssetsBOYAmt>14424136</TotalAssetsBOYAmt>
      <TotalAssetsEOYAmt>13737471</TotalAssetsEOYAmt>
      <TotalLiabilitiesBOYAmt>3703605</TotalLiabilitiesBOYAmt>
      <TotalLiabilitiesEOYAmt>4264352</TotalLiabilitiesEOYAmt>
      <NetAssetsOrFundBalancesBOYAmt>10720531</NetAssetsOrFundBalancesBOYAmt>
      <NetAssetsOrFundBalancesEOYAmt>9473119</NetAssetsOrFundBalancesEOYAmt>
      <MissionDesc>TO PROVIDE HEALTHCARE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES PRIMARILY TO THOSE ORGANIZATIONS SERVING MENTALLY DISABLED CITIZENS.</MissionDesc>
      <SignificantNewProgramSrvcInd>0</SignificantNewProgramSrvcInd>
      <SignificantChangeInd>0</SignificantChangeInd>
      <ExpenseAmt>34675928</ExpenseAmt>
      <GrantAmt>461893</GrantAmt>
      <RevenueAmt>35303404</RevenueAmt>
      <Desc>PROVISION OF HEALTHCARE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES TO THOSE ORGANIZATIONS SERVING MENTALLY DISABLED ADULTS.</Desc>
      <TotalProgramServiceExpensesAmt>34675928</TotalProgramServiceExpensesAmt>
      <DescribedInSection501c3Ind referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1039100001">1</DescribedInSection501c3Ind>
      <ScheduleBRequiredInd>0</ScheduleBRequiredInd>
      <PoliticalCampaignActyInd>0</PoliticalCampaignActyInd>
      <LobbyingActivitiesInd>0</LobbyingActivitiesInd>
      <SubjectToProxyTaxInd>0</SubjectToProxyTaxInd>
      <DonorAdvisedFundInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</DonorAdvisedFundInd>
      <ConservationEasementsInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</ConservationEasementsInd>
      <CollectionsOfArtInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</CollectionsOfArtInd>
      <CreditCounselingInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</CreditCounselingInd>
      <DonorRstrOrQuasiEndowmentsInd>0</DonorRstrOrQuasiEndowmentsInd>
      <ReportLandBuildingEquipmentInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">1</ReportLandBuildingEquipmentInd>
      <ReportInvestmentsOtherSecInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</ReportInvestmentsOtherSecInd>
      <ReportProgramRelatedInvstInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</ReportProgramRelatedInvstInd>
      <ReportOtherAssetsInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</ReportOtherAssetsInd>
      <ReportOtherLiabilitiesInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</ReportOtherLiabilitiesInd>
      <IncludeFIN48FootnoteInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">1</IncludeFIN48FootnoteInd>
      <IndependentAuditFinclStmtInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">1</IndependentAuditFinclStmtInd>
      <ConsolidatedAuditFinclStmtInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1040000001">0</ConsolidatedAuditFinclStmtInd>
      <SchoolOperatingInd>0</SchoolOperatingInd>
      <ForeignOfficeInd>0</ForeignOfficeInd>
      <ForeignActivitiesInd>0</ForeignActivitiesInd>
      <MoreThan5000KToOrgInd>0</MoreThan5000KToOrgInd>
      <MoreThan5000KToIndividualsInd>0</MoreThan5000KToIndividualsInd>
      <ProfessionalFundraisingInd>0</ProfessionalFundraisingInd>
      <FundraisingActivitiesInd>0</FundraisingActivitiesInd>
      <GamingActivitiesInd>0</GamingActivitiesInd>
      <OperateHospitalInd>0</OperateHospitalInd>
      <GrantsToOrganizationsInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1041900001">1</GrantsToOrganizationsInd>
      <GrantsToIndividualsInd referenceDocumentId="RetDoc1041900001">0</GrantsToIndividualsInd>
      <ScheduleJRequiredInd>0</ScheduleJRequiredInd>
      <TaxExemptBondsInd>0</TaxExemptBondsInd>
      <EngagedInExcessBenefitTransInd>0</EngagedInExcessBenefitTransInd>
      <PYExcessBenefitTransInd>0</PYExcessBenefitTransInd>
      <LoanOutstandingInd>0</LoanOutstandingInd>
      <GrantToRelatedPersonInd>0</GrantToRelatedPersonInd>
      <BusinessRlnWithOrgMemInd>0</BusinessRlnWithOrgMemInd>
      <BusinessRlnWithFamMemInd>0</BusinessRlnWithFamMemInd>
      <BusinessRlnWith35CtrlEntInd>0</BusinessRlnWith35CtrlEntInd>
      <DeductibleNonCashContriInd>0</DeductibleNonCashContriInd>
      <DeductibleArtContributionInd>0</DeductibleArtContributionInd>
      <TerminateOperationsInd>0</TerminateOperationsInd>
      <PartialLiquidationInd>0</PartialLiquidationInd>
      <DisregardedEntityInd>0</DisregardedEntityInd>
      <RelatedEntityInd>0</RelatedEntityInd>
      <RelatedOrganizationCtrlEntInd>0</RelatedOrganizationCtrlEntInd>
      <TrnsfrExmptNonChrtblRltdOrgInd>0</TrnsfrExmptNonChrtblRltdOrgInd>
      <ActivitiesConductedPrtshpInd>0</ActivitiesConductedPrtshpInd>
      <ScheduleORequiredInd>1</ScheduleORequiredInd>
      <IRPDocumentCnt>8</IRPDocumentCnt>
      <IRPDocumentW2GCnt>0</IRPDocumentW2GCnt>
      <BackupWthldComplianceInd>1</BackupWthldComplianceInd>
      <EmployeeCnt>54</EmployeeCnt>
      <EmploymentTaxReturnsFiledInd>1</EmploymentTaxReturnsFiledInd>
      <UnrelatedBusIncmOverLimitInd>0</UnrelatedBusIncmOverLimitInd>
      <ForeignFinancialAccountInd>0</ForeignFinancialAccountInd>
      <ProhibitedTaxShelterTransInd>0</ProhibitedTaxShelterTransInd>
      <TaxablePartyNotificationInd>0</TaxablePartyNotificationInd>
      <NondeductibleContributionsInd>0</NondeductibleContributionsInd>
      <QuidProQuoContributionsInd>0</QuidProQuoContributionsInd>
      <Form8282PropertyDisposedOfInd>0</Form8282PropertyDisposedOfInd>
      <IndoorTanningServicesInd>0</IndoorTanningServicesInd>
      <SubjToTaxRmnrtnExPrchtPymtInd>0</SubjToTaxRmnrtnExPrchtPymtInd>
      <SubjectToExcsTaxNetInvstIncInd>0</SubjectToExcsTaxNetInvstIncInd>
      <InfoInScheduleOPartVIInd>X</InfoInScheduleOPartVIInd>
      <GoverningBodyVotingMembersCnt>3</GoverningBodyVotingMembersCnt>
      <IndependentVotingMemberCnt>3</IndependentVotingMemberCnt>
      <FamilyOrBusinessRlnInd>0</FamilyOrBusinessRlnInd>
      <DelegationOfMgmtDutiesInd>0</DelegationOfMgmtDutiesInd>
      <ChangeToOrgDocumentsInd>0</ChangeToOrgDocumentsInd>
      <MaterialDiversionOrMisuseInd>0</MaterialDiversionOrMisuseInd>
      <MembersOrStockholdersInd>0</MembersOrStockholdersInd>
      <ElectionOfBoardMembersInd>0</ElectionOfBoardMembersInd>
      <DecisionsSubjectToApprovaInd>0</DecisionsSubjectToApprovaInd>
      <MinutesOfGoverningBodyInd>1</MinutesOfGoverningBodyInd>
      <MinutesOfCommitteesInd>1</MinutesOfCommitteesInd>
      <OfficerMailingAddressInd>0</OfficerMailingAddressInd>
      <LocalChaptersInd>0</LocalChaptersInd>
      <Form990ProvidedToGvrnBodyInd>0</Form990ProvidedToGvrnBodyInd>
      <ConflictOfInterestPolicyInd>1</ConflictOfInterestPolicyInd>
      <AnnualDisclosureCoveredPrsnInd>1</AnnualDisclosureCoveredPrsnInd>
      <RegularMonitoringEnfrcInd>1</RegularMonitoringEnfrcInd>
      <WhistleblowerPolicyInd>0</WhistleblowerPolicyInd>
      <DocumentRetentionPolicyInd>0</DocumentRetentionPolicyInd>
      <CompensationProcessCEOInd>0</CompensationProcessCEOInd>
      <CompensationProcessOtherInd>0</CompensationProcessOtherInd>
      <InvestmentInJointVentureInd>0</InvestmentInJointVentureInd>
      <UponRequestInd>X</UponRequestInd>
      <BooksInCareOfDetail>
        <BusinessName>
          <BusinessNameLine1Txt>STERLING CO INC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
        </BusinessName>
        <PhoneNum>2564391975</PhoneNum>
        <USAddress>
          <AddressLine1Txt>PO BOX 1457</AddressLine1Txt>
          <CityNm>GADSDEN</CityNm>
          <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
          <ZIPCd>35902</ZIPCd>
        </USAddress>
      </BooksInCareOfDetail>
      <NoListedPersonsCompensatedInd>X</NoListedPersonsCompensatedInd>
      <Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
        <PersonNm>MIKE SELF</PersonNm>
        <TitleTxt>CHAIR</TitleTxt>
        <AverageHoursPerWeekRt>1.00</AverageHoursPerWeekRt>
        <IndividualTrusteeOrDirectorInd>X</IndividualTrusteeOrDirectorInd>
        <ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>
        <ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>
        <OtherCompensationAmt>0</OtherCompensationAmt>
      </Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
      <Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
        <PersonNm>TONY SNOW</PersonNm>
        <TitleTxt>SECRETARY</TitleTxt>
        <AverageHoursPerWeekRt>1.00</AverageHoursPerWeekRt>
        <IndividualTrusteeOrDirectorInd>X</IndividualTrusteeOrDirectorInd>
        <ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>
        <ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>
        <OtherCompensationAmt>0</OtherCompensationAmt>
      </Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
      <Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
        <PersonNm>SCOTT MAYO</PersonNm>
        <TitleTxt>MEMBER</TitleTxt>
        <AverageHoursPerWeekRt>1.00</AverageHoursPerWeekRt>
        <IndividualTrusteeOrDirectorInd>X</IndividualTrusteeOrDirectorInd>
        <ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>
        <ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>
        <OtherCompensationAmt>0</OtherCompensationAmt>
      </Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
      <Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
        <PersonNm>KATHY WEST</PersonNm>
        <TitleTxt>CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER</TitleTxt>
        <AverageHoursPerWeekRt>40.00</AverageHoursPerWeekRt>
        <OfficerInd>X</OfficerInd>
        <ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromOrgAmt>
        <ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>0</ReportableCompFromRltdOrgAmt>
        <OtherCompensationAmt>0</OtherCompensationAmt>
      </Form990PartVIISectionAGrp>
      <TotalReportableCompFromOrgAmt>0</TotalReportableCompFromOrgAmt>
      <TotReportableCompRltdOrgAmt>0</TotReportableCompRltdOrgAmt>
      <TotalOtherCompensationAmt>0</TotalOtherCompensationAmt>
      <IndivRcvdGreaterThan100KCnt>0</IndivRcvdGreaterThan100KCnt>
      <FormerOfcrEmployeesListedInd>0</FormerOfcrEmployeesListedInd>
      <TotalCompGreaterThan150KInd>0</TotalCompGreaterThan150KInd>
      <CompensationFromOtherSrcsInd>0</CompensationFromOtherSrcsInd>
      <ContractorCompensationGrp>
        <ContractorName>
          <BusinessName>
            <BusinessNameLine1Txt>HAYMON HOMES INC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
          </BusinessName>
        </ContractorName>
        <ContractorAddress>
          <USAddress>
            <AddressLine1Txt>4693 MAIN STREET POWELL</AddressLine1Txt>
            <CityNm>FYFFE</CityNm>
            <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
            <ZIPCd>35971</ZIPCd>
          </USAddress>
        </ContractorAddress>
        <ServicesDesc>CONTRACT MANAGEMENT</ServicesDesc>
        <CompensationAmt>23773870</CompensationAmt>
      </ContractorCompensationGrp>
      <ContractorCompensationGrp>
        <ContractorName>
          <BusinessName>
            <BusinessNameLine1Txt>NORTH ALABAMA FAMILY SERVICES</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
          </BusinessName>
        </ContractorName>
        <ContractorAddress>
          <USAddress>
            <AddressLine1Txt>203 S EMMETT STREET</AddressLine1Txt>
            <CityNm>ALBERTVILLE</CityNm>
            <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
            <ZIPCd>35950</ZIPCd>
          </USAddress>
        </ContractorAddress>
        <ServicesDesc>CONTRACT MANAGEMENT</ServicesDesc>
        <CompensationAmt>5748395</CompensationAmt>
      </ContractorCompensationGrp>
      <ContractorCompensationGrp>
        <ContractorName>
          <BusinessName>
            <BusinessNameLine1Txt>TRI COUNTY GROUP HOMES</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
          </BusinessName>
        </ContractorName>
        <ContractorAddress>
          <USAddress>
            <AddressLine1Txt>868 CO RD 529</AddressLine1Txt>
            <CityNm>SCOTTSBORO</CityNm>
            <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
            <ZIPCd>35768</ZIPCd>
          </USAddress>
        </ContractorAddress>
        <ServicesDesc>CONTRACT MANAGEMENT</ServicesDesc>
        <CompensationAmt>3618250</CompensationAmt>
      </ContractorCompensationGrp>
      <ContractorCompensationGrp>
        <ContractorName>
          <BusinessName>
            <BusinessNameLine1Txt>EPISCOPAL KYLE HOMES INC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
          </BusinessName>
        </ContractorName>
        <ContractorAddress>
          <USAddress>
            <AddressLine1Txt>929 CHESTNUT ST</AddressLine1Txt>
            <CityNm>GADSDEN</CityNm>
            <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
            <ZIPCd>35901</ZIPCd>
          </USAddress>
        </ContractorAddress>
        <ServicesDesc>CONTRACT MANAGEMENT</ServicesDesc>
        <CompensationAmt>2836966</CompensationAmt>
      </ContractorCompensationGrp>
      <ContractorCompensationGrp>
        <ContractorName>
          <BusinessName>
            <BusinessNameLine1Txt>GENESIS RESIDENTIAL INC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
          </BusinessName>
        </ContractorName>
        <ContractorAddress>
          <USAddress>
            <AddressLine1Txt>5161 MOORES MILL RD</AddressLine1Txt>
            <CityNm>HUNTSVILLE</CityNm>
            <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
            <ZIPCd>35811</ZIPCd>
          </USAddress>
        </ContractorAddress>
        <ServicesDesc>CONTRACT MANAGEMENT</ServicesDesc>
        <CompensationAmt>1897733</CompensationAmt>
      </ContractorCompensationGrp>
      <CntrctRcvdGreaterThan100KCnt>5</CntrctRcvdGreaterThan100KCnt>
      <ProgramServiceRevenueGrp>
        <Desc>BILLING INCOME: FEDERAL</Desc>
        <BusinessCd>624100</BusinessCd>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>23379232</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>23379232</RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>
      </ProgramServiceRevenueGrp>
      <ProgramServiceRevenueGrp>
        <Desc>BILLING INCOME: STATE</Desc>
        <BusinessCd>624100</BusinessCd>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>8983635</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>8983635</RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>
      </ProgramServiceRevenueGrp>
      <ProgramServiceRevenueGrp>
        <Desc>CONTRACT SERVICES</Desc>
        <BusinessCd>624100</BusinessCd>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>2940537</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>2940537</RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>
      </ProgramServiceRevenueGrp>
      <TotalProgramServiceRevenueAmt>35303404</TotalProgramServiceRevenueAmt>
      <InvestmentIncomeGrp>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>215613</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <ExclusionAmt>215613</ExclusionAmt>
      </InvestmentIncomeGrp>
      <GrossAmountSalesAssetsGrp>
        <OtherAmt>3233</OtherAmt>
      </GrossAmountSalesAssetsGrp>
      <LessCostOthBasisSalesExpnssGrp>
        <OtherAmt>7338</OtherAmt>
      </LessCostOthBasisSalesExpnssGrp>
      <GainOrLossGrp>
        <OtherAmt>-4105</OtherAmt>
      </GainOrLossGrp>
      <NetGainOrLossInvestmentsGrp>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>-4105</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <ExclusionAmt>-4105</ExclusionAmt>
      </NetGainOrLossInvestmentsGrp>
      <GrossSalesOfInventoryAmt>73894</GrossSalesOfInventoryAmt>
      <CostOfGoodsSoldAmt>76180</CostOfGoodsSoldAmt>
      <NetIncomeOrLossGrp>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>-2286</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <ExclusionAmt>-2286</ExclusionAmt>
      </NetIncomeOrLossGrp>
      <TotalRevenueGrp>
        <TotalRevenueColumnAmt>35512626</TotalRevenueColumnAmt>
        <RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>35303404</RelatedOrExemptFuncIncomeAmt>
        <UnrelatedBusinessRevenueAmt>0</UnrelatedBusinessRevenueAmt>
        <ExclusionAmt>209222</ExclusionAmt>
      </TotalRevenueGrp>
      <GrantsToDomesticOrgsGrp>
        <TotalAmt>461893</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>461893</ProgramServicesAmt>
      </GrantsToDomesticOrgsGrp>
      <OtherSalariesAndWagesGrp>
        <TotalAmt>2359066</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>2359066</ProgramServicesAmt>
      </OtherSalariesAndWagesGrp>
      <PensionPlanContributionsGrp>
        <TotalAmt>38893</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>38893</ProgramServicesAmt>
      </PensionPlanContributionsGrp>
      <OtherEmployeeBenefitsGrp>
        <TotalAmt>308786</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>308786</ProgramServicesAmt>
      </OtherEmployeeBenefitsGrp>
      <PayrollTaxesGrp>
        <TotalAmt>185627</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>185627</ProgramServicesAmt>
      </PayrollTaxesGrp>
      <FeesForServicesLegalGrp>
        <TotalAmt>32732</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>32732</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </FeesForServicesLegalGrp>
      <FeesForServicesAccountingGrp>
        <TotalAmt>35272</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>35272</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </FeesForServicesAccountingGrp>
      <FeesForServicesOtherGrp>
        <TotalAmt>60109</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>22000</ProgramServicesAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>38109</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </FeesForServicesOtherGrp>
      <AdvertisingGrp>
        <TotalAmt>9873</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>9873</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </AdvertisingGrp>
      <OfficeExpensesGrp>
        <TotalAmt>48660</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>48660</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </OfficeExpensesGrp>
      <InformationTechnologyGrp>
        <TotalAmt>29738</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>29738</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </InformationTechnologyGrp>
      <OccupancyGrp>
        <TotalAmt>62413</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>62413</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </OccupancyGrp>
      <TravelGrp>
        <TotalAmt>28354</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>22662</ProgramServicesAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>5692</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </TravelGrp>
      <DepreciationDepletionGrp>
        <TotalAmt>113691</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>113691</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </DepreciationDepletionGrp>
      <InsuranceGrp>
        <TotalAmt>12847</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>12847</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </InsuranceGrp>
      <OtherExpensesGrp>
        <Desc>DMH PROVIDER CONTRACTS</Desc>
        <TotalAmt>31261604</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>31261604</ProgramServicesAmt>
      </OtherExpensesGrp>
      <OtherExpensesGrp>
        <Desc>REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE</Desc>
        <TotalAmt>24546</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>24546</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </OtherExpensesGrp>
      <OtherExpensesGrp>
        <Desc>DUES AND MEMBERSHIPS</Desc>
        <TotalAmt>17468</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>17468</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </OtherExpensesGrp>
      <OtherExpensesGrp>
        <Desc>MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AND S</Desc>
        <TotalAmt>17168</TotalAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>17168</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </OtherExpensesGrp>
      <AllOtherExpensesGrp>
        <TotalAmt>32947</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>15397</ProgramServicesAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>17550</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
      </AllOtherExpensesGrp>
      <TotalFunctionalExpensesGrp>
        <TotalAmt>35141687</TotalAmt>
        <ProgramServicesAmt>34675928</ProgramServicesAmt>
        <ManagementAndGeneralAmt>465759</ManagementAndGeneralAmt>
        <FundraisingAmt>0</FundraisingAmt>
      </TotalFunctionalExpensesGrp>
      <CashNonInterestBearingGrp>
        <BOYAmt>0</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>1496973</EOYAmt>
      </CashNonInterestBearingGrp>
      <SavingsAndTempCashInvstGrp>
        <BOYAmt>3000000</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>4551768</EOYAmt>
      </SavingsAndTempCashInvstGrp>
      <AccountsReceivableGrp>
        <BOYAmt>7296113</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>3531861</EOYAmt>
      </AccountsReceivableGrp>
      <OthNotesLoansReceivableNetGrp>
        <BOYAmt>150000</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>83070</EOYAmt>
      </OthNotesLoansReceivableNetGrp>
      <PrepaidExpensesDefrdChargesGrp>
        <BOYAmt>24517</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>25331</EOYAmt>
      </PrepaidExpensesDefrdChargesGrp>
      <LandBldgEquipCostOrOtherBssAmt>3003397</LandBldgEquipCostOrOtherBssAmt>
      <LandBldgEquipAccumDeprecAmt>204501</LandBldgEquipAccumDeprecAmt>
      <LandBldgEquipBasisNetGrp>
        <BOYAmt>3338015</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>2798896</EOYAmt>
      </LandBldgEquipBasisNetGrp>
      <InvestmentsPubTradedSecGrp>
        <BOYAmt>615491</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>1249572</EOYAmt>
      </InvestmentsPubTradedSecGrp>
      <TotalAssetsGrp>
        <BOYAmt>14424136</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>13737471</EOYAmt>
      </TotalAssetsGrp>
      <AccountsPayableAccrExpnssGrp>
        <BOYAmt>3034637</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>4264352</EOYAmt>
      </AccountsPayableAccrExpnssGrp>
      <OtherLiabilitiesGrp>
        <BOYAmt>668968</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>0</EOYAmt>
      </OtherLiabilitiesGrp>
      <TotalLiabilitiesGrp>
        <BOYAmt>3703605</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>4264352</EOYAmt>
      </TotalLiabilitiesGrp>
      <OrganizationFollowsFASB117Ind>X</OrganizationFollowsFASB117Ind>
      <NoDonorRestrictionNetAssetsGrp>
        <BOYAmt>10720531</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>9473119</EOYAmt>
      </NoDonorRestrictionNetAssetsGrp>
      <TotalNetAssetsFundBalanceGrp>
        <BOYAmt>10720531</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>9473119</EOYAmt>
      </TotalNetAssetsFundBalanceGrp>
      <TotLiabNetAssetsFundBalanceGrp>
        <BOYAmt>14424136</BOYAmt>
        <EOYAmt>13737471</EOYAmt>
      </TotLiabNetAssetsFundBalanceGrp>
      <ReconcilationRevenueExpnssAmt>370939</ReconcilationRevenueExpnssAmt>
      <PriorPeriodAdjustmentsAmt>-1618351</PriorPeriodAdjustmentsAmt>
      <OtherChangesInNetAssetsAmt>0</OtherChangesInNetAssetsAmt>
      <InfoInScheduleOPartXIIInd>X</InfoInScheduleOPartXIIInd>
      <MethodOfAccountingAccrualInd>X</MethodOfAccountingAccrualInd>
      <AccountantCompileOrReviewInd>0</AccountantCompileOrReviewInd>
      <FSAuditedInd>1</FSAuditedInd>
      <FSAuditedBasisGrp>
        <SeparateBasisFinclStmtInd>X</SeparateBasisFinclStmtInd>
      </FSAuditedBasisGrp>
      <AuditCommitteeInd>1</AuditCommitteeInd>
      <FederalGrantAuditRequiredInd>0</FederalGrantAuditRequiredInd>
    </IRS990>
    <IRS990ScheduleA documentId="RetDoc1039100001">
      <PubliclySupportedOrg509a2Ind>X</PubliclySupportedOrg509a2Ind>
      <GiftsGrantsContrisRcvd509Grp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>313286</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>513798</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <TotalAmt>827084</TotalAmt>
      </GiftsGrantsContrisRcvd509Grp>
      <GrossReceiptsAdmissionsGrp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>30408519</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>28132256</CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>28227999</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>37589353</CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearAmt>35303404</CurrentTaxYearAmt>
        <TotalAmt>159661531</TotalAmt>
      </GrossReceiptsAdmissionsGrp>
      <GrossReceiptsNonUnrltBusGrp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>121722</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>138603</CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>142569</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>94365</CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearAmt>73894</CurrentTaxYearAmt>
        <TotalAmt>571153</TotalAmt>
      </GrossReceiptsNonUnrltBusGrp>
      <Total509Grp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>30843527</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>28270859</CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>28884366</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>37683718</CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearAmt>35377298</CurrentTaxYearAmt>
        <TotalAmt>161059768</TotalAmt>
      </Total509Grp>
      <AmountsRcvdDsqlfyPersonGrp>
        <TotalAmt>0</TotalAmt>
      </AmountsRcvdDsqlfyPersonGrp>
      <SubstantialContributorsAmtGrp>
        <TotalAmt>0</TotalAmt>
      </SubstantialContributorsAmtGrp>
      <SubstAndDsqlfyPrsnsTotGrp>
        <TotalAmt>0</TotalAmt>
      </SubstAndDsqlfyPrsnsTotGrp>
      <PublicSupportTotal509Amt>161059768</PublicSupportTotal509Amt>
      <GrossInvestmentIncome509Grp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>18783</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>7804</CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>7171</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>235478</CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearAmt>215613</CurrentTaxYearAmt>
        <TotalAmt>484849</TotalAmt>
      </GrossInvestmentIncome509Grp>
      <InvestmentIncomeAndUBTIGrp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>18783</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>7804</CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>7171</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>235478</CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearAmt>215613</CurrentTaxYearAmt>
        <TotalAmt>484849</TotalAmt>
      </InvestmentIncomeAndUBTIGrp>
      <TotalSupportCalendarYearGrp>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>30862310</CurrentTaxYearMinus4YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>28278663</CurrentTaxYearMinus3YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>28891537</CurrentTaxYearMinus2YearsAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>37919196</CurrentTaxYearMinus1YearAmt>
        <CurrentTaxYearAmt>35592911</CurrentTaxYearAmt>
        <TotalAmt>161544617</TotalAmt>
      </TotalSupportCalendarYearGrp>
      <PublicSupportCY509Pct>0.99700</PublicSupportCY509Pct>
      <PublicSupportPY509Pct>0.99810</PublicSupportPY509Pct>
      <InvestmentIncomeCYPct>0.00300</InvestmentIncomeCYPct>
      <InvestmentIncomePYPct>0.00190</InvestmentIncomePYPct>
      <ThirtyThrPctSuprtTestsCY509Ind>X</ThirtyThrPctSuprtTestsCY509Ind>
    </IRS990ScheduleA>
    <IRS990ScheduleD documentId="RetDoc1040000001">
      <BuildingsGrp>
        <OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>2591344</OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>
        <DepreciationAmt>102654</DepreciationAmt>
        <BookValueAmt>2488690</BookValueAmt>
      </BuildingsGrp>
      <LeaseholdImprovementsGrp>
        <OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>167736</OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>
        <DepreciationAmt>20337</DepreciationAmt>
        <BookValueAmt>147399</BookValueAmt>
      </LeaseholdImprovementsGrp>
      <EquipmentGrp>
        <OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>206603</OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>
        <DepreciationAmt>67682</DepreciationAmt>
        <BookValueAmt>138921</BookValueAmt>
      </EquipmentGrp>
      <OtherLandBuildingsGrp>
        <OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>37714</OtherCostOrOtherBasisAmt>
        <DepreciationAmt>13828</DepreciationAmt>
        <BookValueAmt>23886</BookValueAmt>
      </OtherLandBuildingsGrp>
      <TotalBookValueLandBuildingsAmt>2798896</TotalBookValueLandBuildingsAmt>
      <FootnoteTextInd>X</FootnoteTextInd>
      <TotalRevEtcAuditedFinclStmtAmt>35512626</TotalRevEtcAuditedFinclStmtAmt>
      <RevenueNotReportedAmt>0</RevenueNotReportedAmt>
      <RevenueSubtotalAmt>35512626</RevenueSubtotalAmt>
      <RevenueNotReportedFinclStmtAmt>0</RevenueNotReportedFinclStmtAmt>
      <TotalRevenuePerForm990Amt>35512626</TotalRevenuePerForm990Amt>
      <TotExpnsEtcAuditedFinclStmtAmt>35141687</TotExpnsEtcAuditedFinclStmtAmt>
      <ExpensesNotReportedAmt>0</ExpensesNotReportedAmt>
      <ExpensesSubtotalAmt>35141687</ExpensesSubtotalAmt>
      <ExpensesNotRptFinclStmtAmt>0</ExpensesNotRptFinclStmtAmt>
      <TotalExpensesPerForm990Amt>35141687</TotalExpensesPerForm990Amt>
      <SupplementalInformationDetail>
        <FormAndLineReferenceDesc>PART X, LINE 2:</FormAndLineReferenceDesc>
        <ExplanationTxt>TAX POSITIONS ARE INITIALLY RECOGNIZED IN THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS WHEN IT IS MORE LIKELY THAN NOT THAT THE POSITION WILL BE SUSTAINED UPON EXAMINATION BY THE TAX AUTHORITIES. THE ORGANIZATION HAD NO UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS THAT QUALIFY FOR EITHER RECOGNITION OR DISCLOSURE IN THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2025, BASED ON AN ASSESSMENT OF MANY FACTORS INCLUDING EXPERIENCE AND INTERPRETATIONS OF APPLICABLE TAX LAWS.</ExplanationTxt>
      </SupplementalInformationDetail>
    </IRS990ScheduleD>
    <IRS990ScheduleI documentId="RetDoc1041900001">
      <GrantRecordsMaintainedInd>1</GrantRecordsMaintainedInd>
      <RecipientTable>
        <RecipientBusinessName>
          <BusinessNameLine1Txt>SUMMIT ETC</BusinessNameLine1Txt>
        </RecipientBusinessName>
        <USAddress>
          <AddressLine1Txt>241 S 3RD STREET</AddressLine1Txt>
          <CityNm>GADSDEN</CityNm>
          <StateAbbreviationCd>AL</StateAbbreviationCd>
          <ZIPCd>35901</ZIPCd>
        </USAddress>
        <RecipientEIN>203516756</RecipientEIN>
        <IRCSectionDesc>501(C)(3)</IRCSectionDesc>
        <CashGrantAmt>0</CashGrantAmt>
        <NonCashAssistanceAmt>461893</NonCashAssistanceAmt>
        <ValuationMethodUsedDesc>BOOK VALUE</ValuationMethodUsedDesc>
        <NonCashAssistanceDesc>TRANSFER OF VEHICLES</NonCashAssistanceDesc>
        <PurposeOfGrantTxt>TO PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION FOR RESIDENTS OF SUMMIT ETC'S GROUP HOMES</PurposeOfGrantTxt>
      </RecipientTable>
      <Total501c3OrgCnt>1</Total501c3OrgCnt>
    </IRS990ScheduleI>
    <IRS990ScheduleO documentId="RetDoc1044400001">
      <SupplementalInformationDetail>
        <FormAndLineReferenceDesc>FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 11B</FormAndLineReferenceDesc>
        <ExplanationTxt>THE 990 IS REVIEWED BY THE DIRECTOR AND PROVIDED TO THE BOARD.</ExplanationTxt>
      </SupplementalInformationDetail>
      <SupplementalInformationDetail>
        <FormAndLineReferenceDesc>FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 12C</FormAndLineReferenceDesc>
        <ExplanationTxt>REVIEWED ANNUALLY BY THE BOARD.</ExplanationTxt>
      </SupplementalInformationDetail>
      <SupplementalInformationDetail>
        <FormAndLineReferenceDesc>FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION C, LINE 19</FormAndLineReferenceDesc>
        <ExplanationTxt>AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.</ExplanationTxt>
      </SupplementalInformationDetail>
      <SupplementalInformationDetail>
        <FormAndLineReferenceDesc>SECTION 1.263(A)-1(F) DE MINIMIS SAFE HARBOR ELECTION</FormAndLineReferenceDesc>
        <ExplanationTxt>STERLING CO, INC. PO BOX 1457 GADSDEN, AL 35902 EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 46-2455801 FOR THE YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 STERLING CO, INC. IS MAKING THE DE MINIMIS SAFE HARBOR ELECTION UNDER REG. SEC. 1.263(A)-1(F).</ExplanationTxt>
      </SupplementalInformationDetail>
    </IRS990ScheduleO>
  </ReturnData>
</Return>