Downtown Wheaton Association
Public records raise at least one point you should look into before giving.
What it says it does
The Downtown Wheaton Association (DWA) is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization dedicated to driving economic growth and opportunity in downtown Wheaton by fostering connections between local businesses and the community.
- Income
- $598,850
- Spending
- $596,405
- Employees
- 4
- Volunteers
- 20
- Highest pay
- $109,303, executive dir.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. How we rate
Financial health
We do not score finances when yearly spending is very small or the return has too little detail. The ratios stop meaning much at that size.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. How we rate
Governance
This return does not answer enough of the governance questions to score.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. How we rate
Impact evidence
Describes programs. Its tax return describes what it does but we have found no measurable results in it.
Programs described in its return (3)
- $222,163 spent. Salaries expense consists of compensation for four full-time employees who are responsible for carrying out the organizations mission of promoting economic growth and community engagement in downtown Wheaton. These employees manage day-to-day operations, coordinate events and programming, develop partnerships with local businesses, and oversee marketing and outreach initiatives. Their efforts are essential to fostering collaboration between businesses and the community and ensuring the successful execution of programs that support local economic development.
- $182,765 spent. Program expenses primarily relate to the planning and execution of community events and initiatives designed to enhance engagement and stimulate economic activity. Throughout the year, the organization hosts a variety of events, including seasonal and holiday celebrations, job fairs, and business networking forums. These programs provide opportunities for local businesses to connect with residents, attract visitors to the downtown area, and contribute to overall economic vitality.
- $67,359 spent. Advertising expenses include costs associated with promoting downtown Wheaton businesses, community events, and economic development initiatives. The organization utilizes various marketing channels to increase visibility for local businesses and drive customer traffic to the downtown area. These efforts are aligned with the organizations mission by supporting business growth, enhancing community awareness, and encouraging local spending. Advertising is a key component in ensuring strong participation in events and sustained economic activity within the downtown district.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. How we rate
Legitimacy checks
Is it registered with the IRS? Passed.
Listed in the IRS master file of tax-exempt organizations as a 501(c)(6) business league.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
Has the IRS revoked its tax-exempt status? Passed.
Not on the IRS automatic revocation list.
Source: Automatic revocation of exemption list, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 30, 2026.
Are donations tax-deductible? Caution.
The IRS master file records contributions to this 501(c)(6) business league as not deductible.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending December 2025.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.
Recognized by the IRS since May 1996.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
Is it in good standing with state regulators? Passed.
Not on California's list of charities barred from soliciting. Other states are not yet checked.
Source: May Not Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes list, California Attorney General, Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, file dated October 7, 2026.
Ratings and checks are our reading of public records, using the published method. They are not a statement about anyone's honesty. If you work for this organization, you can send corrections or results, confirm you want gifts through Veridonate, or ask to be removed from giving.