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Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum

Learn about this cause: What are the reviews? Is it Legit? Do I like the mission? What is the CEO's salary?

EIN: 426081638 ✦ Decorah, IA ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum?

The Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, situated in Decorah, Iowa, serves as a notable institution that delves into the rich tapestry of Norwegian-American history and culture. Established at 523 WEST WATER STREET, this nonprofit organization provides a variety of educational classes on Norwegian folk art traditions. It also offers guided tours of Norway to its members and the wider public. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the museum expanded its reach with online programs, including classes and collection talks. The museum's mission lies in building community and creating enriching experiences inspired by Norwegian-American stories and folk art. As a national treasure, it showcases the diversity of American immigration through the lens of Norwegian-American experiences, exhibiting both historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts. The museum also preserves living traditions by offering classes in various Norwegian cultural and folk art forms, such as rosemaling (decorative painting), woodworking, knifemaking, traditional food ways, and textile arts. The total workforce of this institution comprises 49 dedicated individuals.


Official website here: www.vesterheim.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 64% (Two-Star out of Four Stars)

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum has received a Two-Star rating from Charity Navigator, indicating some challenges in its accountability and financial performance. The organization demonstrates strong governance with a fully independent board and effective policies in place, such as a conflict of interest policy and a whistleblower policy. However, its financial metrics, including a low program expense ratio and a concerning liabilities to assets ratio, suggest there may be issues with the allocation of resources and overall financial health.

The museum excels in its culture and community efforts, as evidenced by a high score of 85 in this area, indicating positive engagement and support from the community. Additionally, the organization has shown exceptional feedback collection and usage practices, which is a positive sign of its commitment to improving operations based on stakeholder input.

Despite these strengths, the low financial efficiency ratios raise concerns about the museum's ability to sustain its programs and effectively use its funds. Prospective donors and supporters may want to consider these financial factors when evaluating their support for the organization.


This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.

What do the Facebook reviews say about Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum?

92% of 350 reviewers on Facebook recommend the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum. Here's a summary of their reviews:

Visitors appreciate the museum for its insightful and timely message about migration, emphasizing the importance of being open and welcoming to newcomers. The experience is often described as enriching, highlighting a strong connection to cultural heritage and the stories of immigrants.

Overall, patrons seem to find the museum's offerings meaningful and relevant, suggesting that it effectively delivers on its mission to celebrate and educate about the Norwegian-American experience.


This AI summary has been generated from reviews found on Facebook.

Is Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum legitimate?

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum 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: $202,040
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $1,411,986

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.vesterheim.org

What is the mission statement of Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum?

The Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum aims to foster a sense of community and create enriching experiences by drawing inspiration from Norwegian-American stories and folk art. Acting as a national treasure, the museum serves to highlight the diversity of American immigration through the lens of Norwegian-American experiences. It showcases the finest in historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts, preserving living traditions through various classes, such as rosemaling, woodworking, knifemaking, traditional food ways, and textile arts. The museum's mission is to promote cultural preservation and education, contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Norwegian-American heritage.


Official website here: www.vesterheim.org

What is the revenue of Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum?

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum's revenue in 2023 was $5,032,867.


Official website here: www.vesterheim.org

Who are the executives of Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum during 2023 was $29,889. There are 54 employees and 24 volunteers at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum.

Here are 28 key members and their salaries:


Schultz Ruth (Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Rude Brian (Vice Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Platou Liz (Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Alsaker Dan (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Birkland Carol (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Boman Greg (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Dahl Jansen (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Erdman Lindsay (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Espinosa Kari (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Fretheim Daniel (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Hanson Louise (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Hovden Charis (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Johnson Maren (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Kemp Jane (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Kvenvold Gayle (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Larson Brian (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mies Kirk (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Miller Heather (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Nielson Martha Gesme (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Nichols Bj (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Nordan Kenneth (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Reitan Rachel (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Rugland Walter (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sorenson Ruth (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Trygstad Craig (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Johnson Chris (President)
  • Compensation: $129,769
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $6,488
Dube Sithabile Started Mid-Dec (Cfo/Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $4,423
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Gebel Linda Left Mid-Year (Cfo/Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $53,443
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $5,917


Official website here: www.vesterheim.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum?

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.vesterheim.org

Learn more at the official website: www.vesterheim.org

Mission Statement of Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum serves as a national treasure, committed to fostering a sense of community and creating engaging experiences that are rooted in Norwegian-American narratives and folk art. By exploring the rich tapestry of American immigration through the lens of the Norwegian-American experience, the museum showcases the finest examples of historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts. In addition to this, Vesterheim preserves living traditions by offering classes in various aspects of Norwegian culture and folk art, such as rosemaling (decorative painting), woodworking, knifemaking, traditional food ways, and textile arts. This commitment to preserving and promoting Norwegian heritage helps to strengthen the bond between generations and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of American culture.

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Impact




July, 2024

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum's impact is significant in preserving and celebrating Norwegian-American heritage and culture. Through its diverse range of educational programs and events, the museum fosters a sense of community among individuals interested in Norwegian folk art traditions. By showcasing historic and contemporary Norwegian arts and offering classes in various cultural practices such as rosemaling, woodworking, and textile arts, Vesterheim provides a unique space for learning and appreciation. Additionally, the museum's efforts to explore the immigrant experience through a Norwegian-American lens contribute to a deeper understanding of American diversity and heritage. Overall, Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum plays a vital role in preserving living traditions and promoting cultural exchange.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum. 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.

Revenue
$5,032,867 (2023)
Expenses
$3,841,101 (2023)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2023.

  • Investment Income: $305,769
  • Program Service Revenue: $998,125
  • Gross Receipts: $8,900,994

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $26,285,697
  • Total Liabilities: $3,284,638
  • Net Assets: $23,001,059

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Programs

Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.

TUITION AND TOUR FEES

Revenue

$668,727

ADMISSION, MEMBERSHIP & PUBLICATI

Revenue

$329,398

Organization Details

Founding Year

1965

Principal Officer

Johnson Chris

NTEE Category

Code: A500 - Arts

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