Alameda Museum

“The museum offers membership at different levels (such as annual, lifetime, business etc.)at rates which vary from 20 to 1000. Members enjoy four issues of the museum quarterly, free admission to lectures by local luminaries. New and gift memberships have extra incentives. Tax deductible dues are based on the calendar year.”

“All members are eligible to vote for a slate of officers in accordance with the governance documents of the organization.”

“Members elect the board of directors and also vote on any proposed changes to the articles and bylaws of the organization.”

“Form 990 is prepared by an outside tax professional. The form is then reviewed by the organizations management. After full review, the final version of the tax return is provided to all members of the organizations voting body. It is available for public view on websites, but not individually sent to the membership. All members can vote for the board. Board members review and approve the tax return.”

“Members of the board of directors review all potential conflicts of interest at least annually. The museums curator and all board members are required to disclose (in writing) potential conflicts and any related party affiliations. Loans between the organization and members of management and the board are strictly prohibited. The organization seeks full transparency on all relationships and potential conflicts (in fact or appearance). These are discussed openly and resolved in accordance with the organizations policies and procedures.”

“Members of the board of directors review the compensation annually in accordance with the irs rules and regulations. Efforts are made to secure compensation are from the industry source to determine competitiveness and appropriateness of compensation. Every effort is made to ensure that the process is thorough and transparent in accordance with irs guidelines and the organizations policies and procedures.”

“All of the organization's governing documents, financial statements and other legal filings are maintained in a secure environment and made available for inspection by tax authorities and the general public. Tax returns are posted annually to guidestar.org. Here they are available for viewing as electronic copies. They are also available for physical inspection at the organizations office in alameda, ca.”