Overview
What is Merit School Of Music?
Merit School of Music is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization situated at 38 South Peoria Street, Illinois 60607. Their primary mission is to make high-quality music education accessible to underprivileged youth in the region, with over 200 employees dedicated to this cause. They achieve this through various programs tailored to the needs of their partner schools and community centers. These programs encompass band, strings, guitar, choir, Early Childhood education, and General Music, serving children from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Merit School of Music's commitment to inclusivity is evident in their financial aid, scholarship support, and low-cost instrument rental options, ensuring that motivated students from diverse economic backgrounds can develop their musical talents and harness music as a tool for personal growth. Ultimately, 100% of Merit's graduates proceed to higher education.
Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Charity Navigator Rating 100%
Merit School of Music has received a Four-Star out of Four Star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its outstanding performance in accountability and finance, as well as its commitment to community and leadership. The organization exhibits a strong financial health with a program expense ratio of 79.52%, indicating that a significant portion of its budget directly supports its educational programs. The high scores across various metrics, including a 100% score for feedback collection and usage, demonstrate that the organization values and implements stakeholder input effectively.
User reviews highlight the positive impact of Merit School of Music on students and families, praising its diverse and inclusive music education programs. Many parents express gratitude for the opportunities their children have had, noting the exceptional mentorship and high-quality instruction available. The school is particularly commended for its dedication to offering music education to underserved communities, ensuring that children from various backgrounds have access to quality musical training and performance experiences.
While the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, some users emphasize the importance of continued support for the organization, especially in light of dwindling public funding for music education. However, the commitment of the Merit School of Music to provide enriching and accessible music programs has left a lasting impression on its community, showcasing its vital role in fostering youth development through music.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator and Great Nonprofits.
What do the Facebook reviews say about Merit School Of Music?
92% of 269 reviewers on Facebook recommend Merit School of Music. Here's a summary of their reviews:
Many individuals express strong appreciation for the organization's dedicated staff and diverse programs, highlighting its positive impact on the community. Numerous comments reflect a sense of pride in the educational and musical opportunities provided by Merit, emphasizing how it fosters talent and creativity among its students.
Overall, the sentiments indicate that Merit School of Music successfully delivers enriching experiences and support for aspiring musicians, making it a valued resource in the local area.
This AI summary has been generated from reviews found on Facebook.
Is Merit School Of Music legitimate?
Merit School Of Music is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Merit School Of Music submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.
Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:
Executive Compensation: $0
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $4,214,311
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
What is the mission statement of Merit School Of Music?
Merit School of Music aims to transform the lives of youth in the Chicago area by eliminating barriers to accessing high-quality music education. The institution is committed to assisting motivated students, regardless of their economic background, in developing their musical talents and utilizing music as a tool for achieving their full potential. This is achieved through various programs, including group classes, private lessons, and community outreach initiatives. With a strong focus on financial aid, scholarships, and low-cost instrument rental, Merit School of Music ensures that high-quality music education is accessible to a significant number of students. The organization's graduates consistently go on to attend college, demonstrating the impact of its mission on their personal development.
Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
Who is the CEO of Merit School Of Music?
Julie Green Baumeister is the Treasurer of Merit School Of Music.
Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
What is the revenue of Merit School Of Music?
Merit School Of Music's revenue in 2022 was $6,571,408.
Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
Who are the executives of Merit School Of Music and what are their salaries?
The average compensation at Merit School Of Music during 2022 was $20,359. There are 207 employees and 120 volunteers at Merit School Of Music.
Here are 30 key members and their salaries:
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Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Merit School Of Music?
Merit School Of Music's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.meritmusic.org
Learn more at the official website: www.meritmusic.org
Mission Statement of Merit School Of Music
Merit School of Music, a nonprofit organization, is committed to changing the lives of Chicago-area youth by eliminating barriers to top-notch music education. Their mission is centered around providing this opportunity to a large number of students, many of whom benefit from financial aid, scholarships, or low-cost instrument rentals. This dedication allows motivated individuals, regardless of their economic background, to hone their musical talents and utilize music as a launchpad for realizing their full potential. With 100% of its graduates proceeding to higher education, Merit School of Music plays a significant role in fostering personal growth and development through music. The organization's programming encompasses five primary areas: Early Childhood, Group music and vocal classes, Private lessons, Merit Music in Communities, and the Alice S. Pfaelzer Conservatory, each contributing to the comprehensive music education it offers.
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Impact
October, 2024
Merit School of Music transforms the lives of youth in the Chicago area by providing access to high-quality music education, removing barriers for students who might otherwise lack such opportunities. The Merit Music in Communities (MMiC) program is a key component, reaching out to schools and community centers where students face limited access to music instruction. Operating at approximately 22 sites, MMiC caters to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, offering a variety of programs including band, strings, guitar, choir, Early Childhood music, and General Music.
Focused on fostering a love for music and enabling personal growth, Merit School of Music supports motivated students regardless of their economic circumstances. The majority of participants receive need-based financial aid, scholarship support, or benefit from low-cost instrument rentals. This inclusive approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to develop their musical talents and use them as a springboard for broader personal achievement.
The impact of the Merit School of Music is evident in its commitment to education and community. With 100% of its graduates going on to college, the organization plays a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of young lives, demonstrating how music education can foster discipline, creativity, and resilience—skills essential for success both in and out of the classroom. Through a continuum of programming that includes early childhood education, group classes, private lessons, and conservatory training, Merit empowers students to realize their full potential and become contributing members of their communities.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Merit School Of Music. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.
Financials
This financial information is from Propublica.
Other financial information:
This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2022.
- Investment Income: -$2,186,367
- Program Service Revenue: $2,565,089
- Gross Receipts: $9,733,092
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $32,406,157
- Total Liabilities: $988,992
- Net Assets: $31,417,165
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
Student Tuition and Fees
Revenue
$2,111,279
School Contracts
Revenue
$453,810
Organization Details
Founding Year
1979
Phone
(312) 786-9428Principal Officer
Julie Green Baumeister
Main Address
38 South Peoria Street, Chicago, IL, 60607
Website
www.meritmusic.orgNTEE Category
Code: A6E0 - Arts
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