Chicago Blues Revival
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
What it says it does
To educate people about the heritage and development of blues music in Chicago.
- Income
- $171,490
- Spending
- $135,075
- Reserves
- 9 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- donations and private grants, 82%
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2024, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
Strong: 90 out of 100. Higher than 72% of charities in its peer group (arts and culture, under $250k).
Reserves
28 of 35Spendable reserves would cover 9.0 months of spending.
Debt
20 of 20It owes 1% of what it owns.
Living within its means
15 of 15Income exceeded spending by 21% of income.
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2024, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
This organization files the short tax form, which does not ask about boards, policies or audits. That is normal for a small charity and is not a mark against it.
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2024, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. 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 (2)
- $34,887 spent. In 2024, Chicago Blues Revival made a significant impact on the South and West Sides of Chicago by producing 13 vibrant community concerts, bringing the power of live blues music to neighborhoods that have long been central to the genres history. This included eight special performances tailored for seniors, ensuring that older generationsmany of whom have deep personal connections to blues musiccould experience and enjoy live performances in an accessible and welcoming environment. In addition to these core concerts, Chicago Blues Revival co-produced two additional shows, further expanding its reach and influence. With a total audience of over 2,300 people, these events not only celebrated Chicagos blues legacy but also fostered community engagement, cultural appreciation, and intergenerational connections. By bringing high-quality, live blues music directly to communities that may have limited access to such performances, Chicago Blues Revival continues to uphold its mission of revitalizing and sustaining the blues tradition where it was born and where it still resonates deeply.
- $22,240 spent. Chicago Blues Revival proudly spearheaded a transformative semester-long blues residency at a West Side high school, immersing students in the rich history, culture, and musical traditions of the blues. Over the course of 14 weeks, 20 students engaged in an in-depth exploration of this quintessential American art form, guided by experienced musicians and educators. Through hands-on instruction, dynamic discussions, and interactive workshops, students not only gained a deep appreciation for the blues but also developed their own musical skills. The program culminated in an inspiring live performance, allowing participants to showcase their talents and celebrate the powerful legacy of the blues in front of their peers and community members.
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2024, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. 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)(3) charitable organization.
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? Passed.
On the IRS list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
Source: Publication 78 data: organizations eligible for tax-deductible contributions, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 10, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending December 2024.
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 February 2019.
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.