Form990-PF

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Private Foundation
or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust
Treated as a Private Foundation
Note. The foundation may be able to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0052
2010
For calendar year 2010, or tax year beginning 01-01-2010 , and ending 12-31-2010
G
Check all that apply:
Name of foundation
MERIT FOUNDATION
 

Number and street (or P.O. box number if mail is not delivered to street address)15 SOUTH PINE STREET   Room/suite
City or town, state, and ZIP code
MOUNT PROSPECT, IL60056
A Employer identification number

36-4156727
B Telephone number (see page 10 of the instructions)

(847) 253-4055
C bullet
D 1. bullet
H Check type of organization:
2. bullet
I Fair market value of all assets at end
of year (from Part II, col. (c),
line 16)bullet$434,714J Accounting method:
 
(Part I, column (d) must be on cash basis.)
E bullet
F bullet
Part I Analysis of Revenue and Expenses (The total of amounts in columns (b), (c), and (d) may not necessarily equal the amounts in column (a) (see page 11 of the instructions).) (a) Revenue and
expenses per
books 		(b) Net investment
income 		(c) Adjusted net
income 		(d) Disbursements
for charitable
purposes
(cash basis only)
Revenue 1 Contributions, gifts, grants, etc., received (attach schedule)  
2 Check bullet
3 Interest on savings and temporary cash investments      
4 Dividends and interest from securities...... 13,915 13,915  
5a Gross rents..............      
b Net rental income or (loss)  
6a Net gain or (loss) from sale of assets not on line 10 Click to see attachment 10,502
b Gross sales price for all assets on line 6a 118,904
7 Capital gain net income (from Part IV, line 2)... 10,502
8 Net short-term capital gain.........  
9 Income modifications...........  
10a Gross sales less returns and allowances  
b Less: Cost of goods sold....  
c Gross profit or (loss) (attach schedule).....    
11 Other income (attach schedule)....... Click to see attachment 339 339  
12 Total. Add lines 1 through 11........ 24,756 24,756  
Operating and Administrative Expenses 13 Compensation of officers, directors, trustees, etc. 1,500      
14 Other employee salaries and wages......        
15 Pension plans, employee benefits.......        
16a Legal fees (attach schedule)......... Click to see attachment 120      
b Accounting fees (attach schedule).......        
c Other professional fees (attach schedule).... Click to see attachment 5,451 5,451   5,451
17 Interest...............        
18 Taxes (attach schedule) (see page 14 of the instructions)        
19 Depreciation (attach schedule) and depletion...      
20 Occupancy..............        
21 Travel, conferences, and meetings....... 8,313      
22 Printing and publications..........        
23 Other expenses (attach schedule)....... Click to see attachment 85      
24 Total operating and administrative expenses.
Add lines 13 through 23.......... 15,469 5,451   5,451
25 Contributions, gifts, grants paid........ 20,940 20,940
26 Total expenses and disbursements. Add lines 24 and 25 36,409 5,451   26,391
27 Subtract line 26 from line 12:
a Excess of revenue over expenses and disbursements -11,653
b Net investment income (if negative, enter -0-) 19,305
c Adjusted net income (if negative, enter -0-)...  
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see page 30 of the instructions.
Cat. No. 11289X Form 990-PF (2010)
Form 990-PF (2010)
Page 2
Part II Balance Sheets Attached schedules and amounts in the description column
should be for end-of-year amounts only. (See instructions.)		 Beginning of year End of year
(a) Book Value (b) Book Value (c) Fair Market Value
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing............... 4,625 4,727 4,727
2 Savings and temporary cash investments.......... 21,057 15,169 15,169
3 Accounts receivable bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
4 Pledges receivable bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
5 Grants receivable.................      
6 Receivables due from officers, directors, trustees, and other
disqualified persons (attach schedule) (see page 15 of the
instructions)....................      
7 Other notes and loans receivable (attach schedule) bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
8 Inventories for sale or use...............      
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges...........      
10a Investments—U.S. and state government obligations (attach schedule)      
b Investments—corporate stock (attach schedule)........ 339,594 Click to see attachment341,371 336,136
c Investments—corporate bonds (attach schedule)........ 85,254 Click to see attachment77,610 78,682
11 Investments—land, buildings, and equipment: basis bullet  
Less: accumulated depreciation (attach schedule) bullet        
12 Investments—mortgage loans..............      
13 Investments—other (attach schedule)...........      
14 Land, buildings, and equipment: basis bullet  
Less: accumulated depreciation (attach schedule) bullet        
15 Other assets (describe bullet) 15,481 15,481  
16 Total assets (to be completed by all filers—see the
instructions. Also, see page 1, item I) 466,011 454,358 434,714
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses..........    
18 Grants payable...................    
19 Deferred revenue..................    
20 Loans from officers, directors, trustees, and other disqualified persons    
21 Mortgages and other notes payable (attach schedule)......    
22 Other liabilities (describe bullet)    
23 Total liabilities (add lines 17 through 22)..........   0
Net Assets or Fund Balances bullet
and complete lines 24 through 26 and lines 30 and 31.
24 Unrestricted....................    
25 Temporarily restricted................    
26 Permanently restricted................    
bullet
and complete lines 27 through 31.
27 Capital stock, trust principal, or current funds.........    
28 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, bldg., and equipment fund    
29 Retained earnings, accumulated income, endowment, or other funds 466,011 454,358
30 Total net assets or fund balances (see page 17 of the
instructions).................... 466,011 454,358
31 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances (see page 17 of
the instructions).................. 466,011 454,358
Part III Analysis of Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balances
1 Total net assets or fund balances at beginning of year—Part II, column (a), line 30 (must agree
with end-of-year figure reported on prior year’s return)............... 1 466,011
2 Enter amount from Part I, line 27a...................... 2 -11,653
3 Other increases not included in line 2 (itemize) bullet 3  
4 Add lines 1, 2, and 3.......................... 4 454,358
5 Decreases not included in line 2 (itemize) bullet 5  
6 Total net assets or fund balances at end of year (line 4 minus line 5)—Part II, column (b), line 30.. 6 454,358
Form 990-PF (2010)
Form 990-PF (2010)
Page 3
Part IV
Capital Gains and Losses for Tax on Investment Income
(a) List and describe the kind(s) of property sold (e.g., real estate,
2-story brick warehouse; or common stock, 200 shs. MLC Co.) 		(b) How acquired
P—Purchase
D—Donation 		(c) Date acquired
(mo., day, yr.) 		(d) Date sold
(mo., day, yr.)
1 a 150 shrs Burling. North. Santa Fe Reorg P 2006-10-30 2010-02-17
b .701 shrs Berkshire Hathaway Inc P 2006-10-30 2010-02-17
c 28 shrs Royal Dutch Shell P 2006-10-30 2010-03-08
d 16 shrs 3M Company P 2006-10-30 2010-03-08
e 45 shrs Conocophillips P 2006-10-30 2010-03-08
31 shrs Target Corp. P 2006-10-30 2010-03-08
28 shrs Plum Creek Timber Co. P 2006-10-30 2010-03-11
4 shrs General Mills Inc. P 2006-10-30 2010-03-16
35 shrs Berkshire Hathaway P 2006-10-30 2010-03-16
14 Ishrs MSCI Eafe Index Fnd P 2004-12-07 2010-05-20
160 Ishrs MSCI Eafe Index Fnd P 2005-03-08 2010-05-20
112 shrs Spdr S&P500 P 2009-02-05 2010-05-20
507.5 shrs Federated High Income Bnd Fnd P 2009-12-30 2010-05-20
1268.41 shrs Pimco High Yield Fnd P 2009-02-05 2010-05-20
130 shrs Vanguard Short Term Bond P 2009-10-13 2010-05-28
102 shrs Vanguard Short Term Bond P 2009-12-30 2010-05-28
839.706 shrs Federated Total Return Cl A P 2009-12-30 2010-05-28
493.662 shrs Pimco Total Return Fnd Cl A P 2009-02-05 2010-05-28
807.136 shrs Federated Index Tr MaxCap P 2010-05-28 2010-11-19
861.924 shrs Pimco High Yield Fnd CL A P 2009-02-05 2010-11-19
736.35 shrs Federated Index Trust MaxCap Indx P 2010-05-28 2010-12-07
159.323 shrs Pimco High Yield Fnd Cl A P 2009-02-05 2010-12-07
380.051 shrs Pimco High Yield Fnd Cl A P 2010-05-28 2010-12-07
262.208 shrs Pimco Total Return Fund Cl A P 2009-02-05 2010-12-07
176.388 shrs Pimxco Total Return Fund Cl A P 2010-05-20 2010-12-07
(e) Gross sales price (f) Depreciation allowed
(or allowable) 		(g) Cost or other basis
plus expense of sale 		(h) Gain or (loss)
(e) plus (f) minus (g)
a 1,200 0 0 1,200
b 0 0 43 -43
c 1,595 0 1,938 -343
d 1,303 0 1,263 40
e 2,283 0 2,703 -420
1,659 0 1,825 -166
1,025 0 998 27
292 0 227 65
2,879 0 2,186 693
671 0 738 -67
7,674 0 8,834 -1,160
12,217 0 9,500 2,717
3,649 0 3,654 -5
11,175 0 8,651 2,524
10,460 0 10,395 65
8,207 0 8,127 80
9,270 0 9,136 134
5,480 0 5,011 469
10,509 0 9,540 969
8,033 0 5,878 2,155
9,322 0 8,704 618
1,477 0 1,087 390
3,523 0 3,337 186
2,989 0 2,661 328
2,011 0 1,965 46
Complete only for assets showing gain in column (h) and owned by the foundation on 12/31/69 (l) Gains (Col. (h) gain minus
col. (k), but not less than -0-) or
Losses (from col.(h))
(i) F.M.V. as of 12/31/69 (j) Adjusted basis
as of 12/31/69 		(k) Excess of col. (i)
over col. (j), if any
a 0 0 0 1,200
b 0 0 0 -43
c 0 0 0 -343
d 0 0 0 40
e 0 0 0 -420
0 0 0 -166
0 0 0 27
0 0 0 65
0 0 0 693
0 0 0 -67
0 0 0 -1,160
0 0 0 2,717
0 0 0 -5
0 0 0 2,524
0 0 0 65
0 0 0 80
0 0 0 134
0 0 0 469
0 0 0 969
0 0 0 2,155
0 0 0 618
0 0 0 390
0 0 0 186
0 0 0 328
0 0 0 46
2 Capital gain net income or (net capital loss) Bracket If gain, also enter in Part I, line 7
If (loss), enter -0- in Part I, line 7		 Bracket 2 10,502
3 Net short-term capital gain or (loss) as defined in sections 1222(5) and (6):
If gain, also enter in Part I, line 8, column (c) (see pages 13 and 17 of the instructions).
If (loss), enter -0- in Part I, line 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 		Bracket 3  
Part V
Qualification Under Section 4940(e) for Reduced Tax on Net Investment Income
(For optional use by domestic private foundations subject to the section 4940(a) tax on net investment income.)

If section 4940(d)(2) applies, leave this part blank.
Was the foundation liable for the section 4942 tax on the distributable amount of any year in the base period?
If “Yes,” the foundation does not qualify under section 4940(e). Do not complete this part.
1 Enter the appropriate amount in each column for each year; see page 18 of the instructions before making any entries.
(a)
Base period years Calendar
year (or tax year beginning in) 		(b)
Adjusted qualifying distributions 		(c)
Net value of noncharitable-use assets 		(d)
Distribution ratio
(col. (b) divided by col. (c))
2009 23,686 370,199 0.063982
2008 34,829 544,449 0.063971
2007 32,930 649,972 0.050664
2006 34,177 546,984 0.062483
2005 28,456 486,429 0.058500
2 Total of line 1, column (d) ...................... 2 0.299600
3 Average distribution ratio for the 5-year base period—divide the total on line 2 by 5, or by
the number of years the foundation has been in existence if less than 5 years. . . 		3 0.059920
4 Enter the net value of noncharitable-use assets for 2010 from Part X, line 5..... 4 394,086
5 Multiply line 4 by line 3....................... 5 23,614
6 Enter 1% of net investment income (1% of Part I, line 27b)........... 6 193
7 Add lines 5 and 6......................... 7 23,807
8 Enter qualifying distributions from Part XII, line 4.............. 8 26,391
If line 8 is equal to or greater than line 7, check the box in Part VI, line 1b, and complete that part using a 1% tax rate. See
the Part VI instructions on page 18.
Form 990-PF (2010)
Form 990-PF (2010)
Page 4
Part VI
Excise Tax Based on Investment Income (Section 4940(a), 4940(b), 4940(e), or 4948—see page 18 of the instructions)
1a Bulletand enter “N/A” on line 1. Bracket
Date of ruling or determination letter:   (attach copy of letter if necessary–see instructions)
b 1 193
hereBulletand enter 1% of Part I, line 27b...................
c All other domestic foundations enter 2% of line 27b. Exempt foreign organizations enter 4% of Part I, line 12, col. (b)
2 Tax under section 511 (domestic section 4947(a)(1) trusts and taxable foundations only. Others enter -0-) 2 0
3 Add lines 1 and 2............................ 3 193
4 Subtitle A (income) tax (domestic section 4947(a)(1) trusts and taxable foundations only. Others enter -0-). 4  
5 Tax based on investment income. Subtract line 4 from line 3. If zero or less, enter -0- ..... 5 193
6 Credits/Payments:
a 2010 estimated tax payments and 2009 overpayment credited to 2010 6a 282
b Exempt foreign organizations—tax withheld at source....... 6b
c Tax paid with application for extension of time to file (Form 8868) 6c  
d Backup withholding erroneously withheld ........... 6d  
7 Total credits and payments. Add lines 6a through 6d.............. : -282 7 282
8 Enter any penalty for underpayment of estimated tax. if Form 2220 is attached. 8  
9 Tax due. If the total of lines 5 and 8 is more than line 7, enter amount owed.......Bullet 9  
10 Overpayment. If line 7 is more than the total of lines 5 and 8, enter the amount overpaid...Bullet 10 89
11 Enter the amount of line 10 to be: Credited to 2011 estimated taxBullet89 Refunded Bullet 11  
Part VII-A
Statements Regarding Activities
1a
During the tax year, did the foundation attempt to influence any national, state, or local legislation or did
Yes
No
it participate or intervene in any political campaign? ....................
1a
 
No
b
Did it spend more than $100 during the year (either directly or indirectly) for political purposes (see page 19 of
the instructions for definition)?.............................
1b
 
No
If the answer is “Yes” to 1a or 1b, attach a detailed description of the activities and copies of any materials
published or distributed by the foundation in connection with the activities.
c
Did the foundation file Form 1120-POL for this year?.....................
1c
 
No
d
Enter the amount (if any) of tax on political expenditures (section 4955) imposed during the year:
(1) On the foundation. bullet$   (2) On foundation managers.bullet$  
e
Enter the reimbursement (if any) paid by the foundation during the year for political expenditure tax imposed
on foundation managers.bullet$  
2
Has the foundation engaged in any activities that have not previously been reported to the IRS?.......
2
 
No
If “Yes,” attach a detailed description of the activities.
3
Has the foundation made any changes, not previously reported to the IRS, in its governing instrument, articles
of incorporation, or bylaws, or other similar instruments? If “Yes,” attach a conformed copy of the changes....
3
 
No
4a
Did the foundation have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?........
4a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a tax return on Form 990-T for this year?...................
4b
 
No
5
Was there a liquidation, termination, dissolution, or substantial contraction during the year?.........
5
 
No
If “Yes,” attach the statement required by General Instruction T.
6
Are the requirements of section 508(e) (relating to sections 4941 through 4945) satisfied either:
  • By language in the governing instrument, or
  • By state legislation that effectively amends the governing instrument so that no mandatory directions
    • that conflict with the state law remain in the governing instrument?................
    6
    Yes
     
    7
    Did the foundation have at least $5,000 in assets at any time during the year? If “Yes,” complete Part II, col. (c), and Part XV.
    7
    Yes
     
    8a
    Enter the states to which the foundation reports or with which it is registered (see page 19 of the
    instructions)bulletIL
    b
    If the answer is “Yes” to line 7, has the foundation furnished a copy of Form 990-PF to the Attorney
    General (or designate) of each state as required by General Instruction G? If “No,” attach explanation .
    8b
    Yes
     
    9
    Is the foundation claiming status as a private operating foundation within the meaning of section 4942(j)(3)
    or 4942(j)(5) for calendar year 2010 or the taxable year beginning in 2010 (see instructions for Part XIV on
    page 27)? If “Yes,” complete Part XIV...........................
    9
     
    No
    10
    Did any persons become substantial contributors during the tax year? If “Yes,” attach a schedule listing their names and addresses.
    10
     
    No
    11
    At any time during the year, did the foundation, directly or indirectly, own a controlled entity within the
    meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," attach schedule. (see page 20 of the instructions) .......
    11
     
    No
    12
    Did the foundation acquire a direct or indirect interest in any applicable insurance contract before August 17, 2008?
    12
     
    No
    13
    Did the foundation comply with the public inspection requirements for its annual returns and exemption application?
    13
    Yes
     
    Website addressbulletN/A
    14
    The books are in care ofbulletMARLYS E WEARY Telephone no.bullet (847) 253-4055
    Located atbullet15 S PINE STREET 404 MTPROSPECTIL ZIP+4bullet600563146
    15
    Section 4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trusts filing Form 990-PF in lieu of Form 1041.........bullet
    and enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year ......bullet
    15  
    16
    At any time during calendar year 2010, did the foundation have an interest in or a signature or other authority over
    a bank, securities, or other financial account in a foreign country? .................
    16
     
    No
    See page 20 of the instructions for exceptions and filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1. If "Yes", enter the name of the foreign country bullet  
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 5
    Part VII-B
    Statements Regarding Activities for Which Form 4720 May Be Required
    File Form 4720 if any item is checked in the “Yes” column, unless an exception applies.
    Yes
    No
    1a
    During the year did the foundation (either directly or indirectly):
    (1) Engage in the sale or exchange, or leasing of property with a disqualified person?
    (2) Borrow money from, lend money to, or otherwise extend credit to (or accept it from)
    a disqualified person?.........................
    (3) Furnish goods, services, or facilities to (or accept them from) a disqualified person?
    (4) Pay compensation to, or pay or reimburse the expenses of, a disqualified person?
    (5) Transfer any income or assets to a disqualified person (or make any of either available
    for the benefit or use of a disqualified person)?.................
    (6) Agree to pay money or property to a government official? (Exception. Check “No”
    if the foundation agreed to make a grant to or to employ the official for a period
    after termination of government service, if terminating within 90 days.).........
    b
    If any answer is “Yes” to 1a(1)–(6), did any of the acts fail to qualify under the exceptions described in Regulations
    section 53.4941(d)-3 or in a current notice regarding disaster assistance (see page 20 of the instructions)?...
    1b
     
    No
    .........bullet
    c
    Did the foundation engage in a prior year in any of the acts described in 1a, other than excepted acts,
    that were not corrected before the first day of the tax year beginning in 2010?.............
    1c
     
    No
    2
    Taxes on failure to distribute income (section 4942) (does not apply for years the foundation was a private
    operating foundation defined in section 4942(j)(3) or 4942(j)(5)):
    a
    At the end of tax year 2010, did the foundation have any undistributed income (lines 6d
    and 6e, Part XIII) for tax year(s) beginning before 2010?...............
    If “Yes,” list the years bullet20, 20, 20, 20
    b
    Are there any years listed in 2a for which the foundation is not applying the provisions of section 4942(a)(2)
    (relating to incorrect valuation of assets) to the year’s undistributed income? (If applying section 4942(a)(2)
    to all years listed, answer “No” and attach statement—see page 20 of the instructions.) .........
    2b
     
     
    c
    If the provisions of section 4942(a)(2) are being applied to any of the years listed in 2a, list the years here.
    bullet20, 20, 20, 20
    3a
    Did the foundation hold more than a 2% direct or indirect interest in any business
    enterprise at any time during the year?.....................
    b
    If “Yes,” did it have excess business holdings in 2010 as a result of (1) any purchase by the foundation
    or disqualified persons after May 26, 1969; (2) the lapse of the 5-year period (or longer period approved
    by the Commissioner under section 4943(c)(7)) to dispose of holdings acquired by gift or bequest; or (3)
    the lapse of the 10-, 15-, or 20-year first phase holding period? (Use Schedule C, Form 4720, to determine
    if the foundation had excess business holdings in 2010.)....................
    3b
     
     
    4a
    Did the foundation invest during the year any amount in a manner that would jeopardize its charitable purposes?
    4a
     
    No
    b
    Did the foundation make any investment in a prior year (but after December 31, 1969) that could jeopardize its
    charitable purpose that had not been removed from jeopardy before the first day of the tax year beginning in 2010?
    4b
     
    No
    5a
    During the year did the foundation pay or incur any amount to:
    (1) Carry on propaganda, or otherwise attempt to influence legislation (section 4945(e))?
    (2) Influence the outcome of any specific public election (see section 4955); or to carry
    on, directly or indirectly, any voter registration drive?...............
    (3) Provide a grant to an individual for travel, study, or other similar purposes?
    (4) Provide a grant to an organization other than a charitable, etc., organization described
    in section 509(a)(1), (2), or (3), or section 4940(d)(2)? (see page 22 of the instructions)...
    (5) Provide for any purpose other than religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or
    educational purposes, or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals?........
    b
    If any answer is “Yes” to 5a(1)–(5), did any of the transactions fail to qualify under the exceptions described in
    Regulations section 53.4945 or in a current notice regarding disaster assistance (see page 22 of the instructions)?
    5b
     
     
    .........bullet
    c
    If the answer is “Yes” to question 5a(4), does the foundation claim exemption from the
    tax because it maintained expenditure responsibility for the grant?............
    If “Yes,” attach the statement required by Regulations section 53.4945–5(d).
    6a
    Did the foundation, during the year, receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay
    premiums on a personal benefit contract?....................
    b
    Did the foundation, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?....
    6b
     
    No
    If “Yes” to 6b, file Form 8870.
    7a
    At any time during the tax year, was the foundation a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
    b
    If yes, did the foundation receive any proceeds or have any net income attributable to the transaction? ....
    7b
     
     
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 6
    Part VIII
    Information About Officers, Directors, Trustees, Foundation Managers, Highly Paid Employees,
    and Contractors
    1 List all officers, directors, trustees, foundation managers and their compensation (see page 22 of the instructions).
    (a) Name and address (b) Title, and average
    hours per week
    devoted to position     		(c) Compensation
     (If not paid, enter
    -0-)     		(d) Contributions to
    employee benefit plans
    and deferred compensation     		(e) Expense account,
    other allowances
    MARLYS WEARY President
    1.00     		0 0 24
    15 S PINE STR
    MT PROSPECT,IL60056
    SHARON FRUCHT Secretary
    1.00     		0 0 960
    707 CALVERT LANE
    FORT WASHINGTON,MD20744
    RONALD WEARY Treasurer
    2.00     		0 0 851
    10031 E NACOMA CT
    SUN LAKE,AZ85248
    REBECCA JOHNSON Director
    1.00     		300 0 294
    1N155 CYPRESS LANE
    WINFIELD,IL60190
    LAUREN B CANTONI Director
    1.00     		300 0 1,434
    15404 S FOURTH DR
    PHOENIX,AZ85045
    ALEXIA RC GOSPODINOFF Director
    1.00     		300 0 1,183
    1502 BLACK-EYED SUSAN LANE
    VIENNA,VA22182
    STEVEN FRUCHT Director
    1.00     		300 0 1,753
    1040 KESWICK LANE
    CLEMMONS,NC27012
    MICHAEL FRUCHT Director
    1.00     		300 0 397
    241 DARTMOOR DR
    MADISON,WI53711
    2 Compensation of five highest-paid employees (other than those included on line 1—see page 23 of the instructions).
    If none, enter “NONE.”
    (a) Name and address of each employee paid more than $50,000 (b) Title, and average
    hours per week
    devoted to position     		(c) Compensation (d) Contributions to
    employee benefit
    plans and deferred
    compensation     		(e) Expense account,
    other allowances
    NONE
    Total number of other employees paid over $50,000...................bullet 0
    3 Five highest-paid independent contractors for professional services (see page 23 of the instructions). If none, enter "NONE".
    (a) Name and address of each person paid more than $50,000 (b) Type of service (c) Compensation
    NONE
    Total number of others receiving over $50,000 for professional services.............bullet0
    Part IX-A
    Summary of Direct Charitable Activities
    List the foundation’s four largest direct charitable activities during the tax year. Include relevant statistical information such as the number of organizations and other beneficiaries served, conferences convened, research papers produced, etc. Expenses
    1
     
    2  
    3  
    4  
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 7
    Part IX-B
    Summary of Program-Related Investments (see page 23 of the instructions)
    Describe the two largest program-related investments made by the foundation during the tax year on lines 1 and 2. Amount
    1  
    2  
    All other program-related investments. See page 24 of the instructions.
    3  
    Total. Add lines 1 through 3...........................bullet  
    Part X
    Minimum Investment Return (All domestic foundations must complete this part. Foreign foundations,
    see page 24 of the instructions.)
    1
    Fair market value of assets not used (or held for use) directly in carrying out charitable, etc.,
    purposes:
    a
    Average monthly fair market value of securities...................
    1a
    378,819
    b
    Average of monthly cash balances.......................
    1b
    21,268
    c
    Fair market value of all other assets (see page 24 of the instructions)............
    1c
    0
    d
    Total (add lines 1a, b, and c).........................
    1d
    400,087
    e
    Reduction claimed for blockage or other factors reported on lines 1a and
    1c (attach detailed explanation) ..............
    1e
     
    2
    Acquisition indebtedness applicable to line 1 assets..................
    2
     
    3
    Subtract line 2 from line 1d..........................
    3
    400,087
    4
    Cash deemed held for charitable activities. Enter 1 1⁄2% of line 3 (for greater amount, see page 25
    of the instructions) ............................
    4
    6,001
    5
    Net value of noncharitable-use assets. Subtract line 4 from line 3. Enter here and on Part V, line 4
    5
    394,086
    6
    Minimum investment return. Enter 5% of line 5...................
    6
    19,704
    Part XI
    Distributable Amount bullet and do not complete this part.)
    1
    Minimum investment return from Part X, line 6....................
    1
    19,704
    2a
    Tax on investment income for 2010 from Part VI, line 5......
    2a
    193
    b
    Income tax for 2010. (This does not include the tax from Part VI.)...
    2b
     
    c
    Add lines 2a and 2b............................
    2c
    193
    3
    Distributable amount before adjustments. Subtract line 2c from line 1............
    3
    19,511
    4
    Recoveries of amounts treated as qualifying distributions................
    4
     
    5
    Add lines 3 and 4.............................
    5
    19,511
    6
    Deduction from distributable amount (see page 25 of the instructions)...........
    6
     
    7
    Distributable amount as adjusted. Subtract line 6 from line 5. Enter here and on Part XIII,
    line 1.................................
    7
    19,511
    Part XII
    Qualifying Distributions (see page 25 of the instructions)
    1
    Amounts paid (including administrative expenses) to accomplish charitable, etc., purposes:
    a
    Expenses, contributions, gifts, etc.—total from Part I, column (d), line 26 ..........
    1a
    26,391
    b
    Program-related investments—total from Part IX-B..................
    1b
     
    2
    Amounts paid to acquire assets used (or held for use) directly in carrying out charitable, etc.,
    purposes................................
    2
     
    3
    Amounts set aside for specific charitable projects that satisfy the:
    a
    Suitability test (prior IRS approval required)....................
    3a
     
    b
    Cash distribution test (attach the required schedule) .................
    3b
     
    4
    Qualifying distributions. Add lines 1a through 3b. Enter here and on Part V, line 8, and Part XIII, line 4
    4
    26,391
    5
    Foundations that qualify under section 4940(e) for the reduced rate of tax on net investment
    income. Enter 1% of Part I, line 27b (see page 26 of the instructions)............
    5
    193
    6
    Adjusted qualifying distributions. Subtract line 5 from line 4...............
    6
    26,198
    Note: The amount on line 6 will be used in Part V, column (b), in subsequent years when calculating whether the foundation qualifies for
    the section 4940(e) reduction of tax in those years.
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 8
    Part XIII
    Undistributed Income (see page 26 of the instructions)
    (a)
    Corpus     		(b)
    Years prior to 2009     		(c)
    2009     		(d)
    2010
    1 Distributable amount for 2010 from Part XI, line 7 19,511
    2 Undistributed income, if any, as of the end of 2010:
    a Enter amount for 2009 only.......  
    b Total for prior years:20, 20, 20  
    3 Excess distributions carryover, if any, to 2010:
    a From 2005....... 4,346
    b From 2006....... 7,426
    c From 2007....... 9,137
    d From 2008....... 7,829
    e From 2009....... 5,316
    fTotal of lines 3a through e......... 34,054
    4Qualifying distributions for 2010 from Part
    XII, line 4: bullet$ 26,391
    a Applied to 2009, but not more than line 2a  
    b Applied to undistributed income of prior years
    (Election required—see page 26 of the instructions)    		  
    c Treated as distributions out of corpus (Election
    required—see page 26 of the instructions)...     		 
    d Applied to 2010 distributable amount..... 19,511
    e Remaining amount distributed out of corpus 6,880
    5 Excess distributions carryover applied to 2010.    
    (If an amount appears in column (d), the
    same amount must be shown in column (a).)
    6Enter the net total of each column as
    indicated below:
    a Corpus. Add lines 3f, 4c, and 4e. Subtract line 5 40,934
    b Prior years’ undistributed income. Subtract
    line 4b from line 2b ...........     		 
    c Enter the amount of prior years’ undistributed
    income for which a notice of deficiency has
    been issued, or on which the section 4942(a)
    tax has been previously assessed......     		 
    d Subtract line 6c from line 6b. Taxable
    amount—see page 27 of the instructions ...     		 
    e Undistributed income for 2009. Subtract line
    4a from line 2a. Taxable amount—see page 27
    of the instructions ...........     		 
    f Undistributed income for 2010. Subtract
    lines 4d and 5 from line 1. This amount must
    be distributed in 2011 ..........     		0
    7 Amounts treated as distributions out of
    corpus to satisfy requirements imposed by
    section 170(b)(1)(F) or 4942(g)(3) (see page 27
    of the instructions) ...........     		 
    8Excess distributions carryover from 2005 not
    applied on line 5 or line 7 (see page 27 of the
    instructions) .............     		4,346
    9Excess distributions carryover to 2011.
    Subtract lines 7 and 8 from line 6a ......     		36,588
    10 Analysis of line 9:
    a Excess from 2006.... 7,426
    b Excess from 2007.... 9,137
    c Excess from 2008.... 7,829
    d Excess from 2009.... 5,316
    e Excess from 2010.... 6,880
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 9
    Part XIV
    Private Operating Foundations (see page 27 of the instructions and Part VII-A, question 9)
    1a If the foundation has received a ruling or determination letter that it is a private operating
    foundation, and the ruling is effective for 2010, enter the date of the ruling.......bullet
     
    b Check box to indicate whether the organization is a private operating foundation described in section or
    2a Enter the lesser of the adjusted net
    income from Part I or the minimum
    investment return from Part X for each
    year listed ..........     		Tax year Prior 3 years (e) Total
    (a) 2010 (b) 2009 (c) 2008 (d) 2007
             
    b 85% of line 2a .........          
    c Qualifying distributions from Part XII,
    line 4 for each year listed .....     		         
    d Amounts included in line 2c not used directly
    for active conduct of exempt activities ....     		         
    e Qualifying distributions made directly
    for active conduct of exempt activities.
    Subtract line 2d from line 2c ....     		         
    3 Complete 3a, b, or c for the
    alternative test relied upon:
    a “Assets” alternative test—enter:
    (1) Value of all assets ......          
    (2) Value of assets qualifying
    under section 4942(j)(3)(B)(i)    		          
    b “Endowment” alternative test— enter 2⁄3
    of minimum investment return shown in
    Part X, line 6 for each year listed...     		         
    c “Support” alternative test—enter:
    (1) Total support other than gross
    investment income (interest,
    dividends, rents, payments
    on securities loans (section
    512(a)(5)), or royalties) ....     		         
    (2) Support from general public
    and 5 or more exempt
    organizations as provided in
    section 4942(j)(3)(B)(iii)....     		         
    (3) Largest amount of support
    from an exempt organization    		          
    (4) Gross investment income          
    Part XV
    Supplementary Information (Complete this part only if the organization had $5,000 or more in
    assets at any time during the year—see page 27 of the instructions.)
    1Information Regarding Foundation Managers:
    aList any managers of the foundation who have contributed more than 2% of the total contributions received by the foundation
    before the close of any tax year (but only if they have contributed more than $5,000). (See section 507(d)(2).)
    MARLYS E WEARY ALEXIA RC GOSPODINOF
    LAUREN CONTONI MICHAEL FRUCHT STEPH
    bList any managers of the foundation who own 10% or more of the stock of a corporation (or an equally large portion of the
    ownership of a partnership or other entity) of which the foundation has a 10% or greater interest.
    NA
    2Information Regarding Contribution, Grant, Gift, Loan, Scholarship, etc., Programs:
    Check here bullet
    aThe name, address, and telephone number of the person to whom applications should be addressed:
    bThe form in which applications should be submitted and information and materials they should include:
    cAny submission deadlines:
    dAny restrictions or limitations on awards, such as by geographical areas, charitable fields, kinds of institutions, or other
    factors:
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 10
    Part XV
    Supplementary Information (continued)
    3 Grants and Contributions Paid During the Year or Approved for Future Payment
    Recipient If recipient is an individual,
    show any relationship to
    any foundation manager
    or substantial contributor
    		 Foundation
    status of
    recipient     		Purpose of grant or
    contribution     		Amount
    Name and address (home or business)
    aPaid during the year
    PIONEER CAMP & RETREAT CENTER
    9324 LAKE SHORE ROAD
    ANGOLA,NY14006     		  501(c)3 Religious 688
    NEW MORNING NURSERY SCHOOL
    3200 MONROE STREET
    MADISON,WI53711     		  501(c)3 Religious 1,000
    DEAN FOUNDATION
    2711 ALLEN BLVD STE 300
    MIDDLETON,WI53562     		  501(c)3 Charitable/Scientific 500
    ST MARY'S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
    700 SOUTH PARK STREET
    MADISON,WI53715     		  501(c)3 Scientific 500
    AUGSBERG LUTHERAN CHURCH
    845 W 5TH STREET
    WINSTON SALEM,NC27101     		  501(c)3 Religious 2,000
    CANTIGNY FOUNDATION
    1S151 WINFIELD ROAD
    WHEATON,IL60187     		  501(c)3 Scientific 2,000
    WINFIELD LIBRARY FRIENDS
    0S291 WINFIELD ROAD
    WINFIELD,IL60190     		  501(c)3 Charitable 1,000
    ST PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH
    515 SOUTH WHEATON AVE
    WHEATON,IL60187     		  501(c)3 Religious 1,188
    SUMMIT SCHOOL - AHWATUKEE
    4515 E MUIRWOOD DRIVE
    PHOENIX,AZ85048     		  501(c)3 Education 4,188
    EDGEWOOD CAMPUS SCHOOL
    829 EDGEWOOD COLLEGE DRIVE
    MADISON,WI53711     		  501(c)3 Education 1,500
    CLEMMONS MORACVIAN CHURCH
    3535 SPANGENBERG AVENUE
    CLEMMONS,NC27012     		  501(c)3 Charitable 188
    RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
    267-07 76TH AVENE
    NEW HYDE PARK,NY11040     		  501(c)3 Charitable 2,188
    GOOD SHEPARD LUTHERAN CHURCH
    1133 RESTON AVENUE
    HERNDON,VA20170     		  501(c)3 Religious 2,000
    BRUNSON COMMUNICATIONS & WORLD CULTURES
    155 N HAWTHORNE ROAD
    WINSTONSALEM,NC27104     		  501(c)3 Education 500
    JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    312 N EUGENE STR STE D
    GREENSBORO,NC27401     		  501(c)3 Scientific 1,500
    Total .................................bullet 3a 20,940
    bApproved for future payment
    Total ..................................bullet 3b  
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 11
    Part XVI-A
    Analysis of Income-Producing Activities
    Enter gross amounts unless otherwise indicated. Unrelated business income Excluded by section 512, 513, or 514 (e)
    Related or exempt
    function income
    (See page 28 of
    the instructions.)
    1Program service revenue: (a)
    Business code     		(b)
    Amount     		(c)
    Exclusion code     		(d)
    Amount
    a
    b
    c
    d
    e
    f
    gFees and contracts from government agencies          
    2 Membership dues and assessments....          
    3Interest on savings and temporary cash investments          
    4 Dividends and interest from securities....         13,915
    5 Net rental income or (loss) from real estate:
    aDebt-financed property......          
    bNot debt-financed property.....          
    6Net rental income or (loss) from personal property          
    7 Other investment income.....          
    8Gain or (loss) from sales of assets other than inventory         10,502
    9 Net income or (loss) from special events:          
    10 Gross profit or (loss) from sales of inventory..          
    11 Other revenue: a
    b
    c
    d
    e
    12 Subtotal. Add columns (b), (d), and (e)..     24,417
    13Total. Add line 12, columns (b), (d), and (e)...................
    1324,417
    (See worksheet in line 13 instructions on page 28 to verify calculations.)
    Part XVI-B
    Relationship of Activities to the Accomplishment of Exempt Purposes
    Line No.
    DownArrow     		Explain below how each activity for which income is reported in column (e) of Part XVI-A contributed importantly to
    the accomplishment of the organization’s exempt purposes (other than by providing funds for such purposes). (See
    page 28 of the instructions.)
    4 Income produced to support grants to other 501(c)3 organizations
    8 Income produced to support grants to other 501(c)3 organizations
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 12
    Part XVII
    Information Regarding Transfers To and Transactions and Relationships With Noncharitable Exempt Organizations
    1
    Did the organization directly or indirectly engage in any of the following with any other organization described in section
    Yes
    No
    501(c) of the Code (other than section 501(c)(3) organizations) or in section 527, relating to political organizations?
    a
    Transfers from the reporting foundation to a noncharitable exempt organization of:
    (1) Cash....................................
    1a(1)
     
    No
    (2) Other assets.................................
    1a(2)
     
    No
    b
    Other transactions:
    (1) Sales of assets to a noncharitable exempt organization....................
    1b(1)
     
    No
    (2) Purchases of assets from a noncharitable exempt organization..................
    1b(2)
     
    No
    (3) Rental of facilities, equipment, or other assets.......................
    1b(3)
     
    No
    (4) Reimbursement arrangements............................
    1b(4)
     
    No
    (5) Loans or loan guarantees..............................
    1b(5)
     
    No
    (6) Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations................
    1b(6)
     
    No
    c
    Sharing of facilities, equipment, mailing lists, other assets, or paid employees..............
    1c
     
    No
    d
    If the answer to any of the above is “Yes,” complete the following schedule. Column (b) should always show the fair market value
    of the goods, other assets, or services given by the reporting foundation. If the foundation received less than fair market value
    in any transaction or sharing arrangement, show in column (d) the value of the goods, other assets, or services received.
    (a) Line No. (b) Amount involved (c) Name of noncharitable exempt organization (d) Description of transfers, transactions, and sharing arrangements
    2a
    Is the foundation directly or indirectly affiliated with, or related to, one or more tax-exempt organizations
    described in section 501(c) of the Code (other than section 501(c)(3)) or in section 527?...........
    b
    If “Yes,” complete the following schedule.
    (a) Name of organization (b) Type of organization (c) Description of relationship
    SignHere
    Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than taxpayer or fiduciary) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
    Bullet Bullet
    Signature of officer or trustee Date Title
    PaidPreparersUseOnly Preparer's SignatureBullet Date PTIN
    Firm's namebullet



    Firm's addressbullet







         		Firm's EINbullet
    Phone no.
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Additional Data


    Software ID:  
    Software Version:  


    Form 990PF - Special Condition Description:
    Special Condition Description

    TY 2010 AllOthProgRltdInvestmentsSch
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Category Amount
    None  

    Note: To capture the full content of this document, please select landscape mode (11" x 8.5") when printing.

    TY 2010 GainLossSaleOtherAssetsSch
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Name Date Acquired How Acquired Date Sold Purchaser Name Gross Sales Price Basis Basis Method Sales Expenses Total (net) Accumulated Depreciation
    Sale of Marketable Securities - See Part IV (a)   Purchased   VARIOUS 118,904 108,402     10,502  

    TY 2010 InvestmentsCorpBondsSchedule
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Name of Bond End of Year Book Value End of Year Fair Market Value
    1956.721 shrs Hussman Investment Trust 23,872 23,735
    123 Ishrs Barclays Treasury 12,567 13,225
    1302.295 shrs Pimco Hgh Yld Fnd CL A 11,434 12,111
    1045.784 shrs Pimco Total Return Fnd CL A 11,650 11,347
    227 shrs Vanguard Short Term Bond 18,087 18,264

    TY 2010 InvestmentsCorpStockSchedule
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Name of Stock End of Year Book Value End of Year Fair Market Value
    346.135 shrs Intrepid CapMgmt Fds 5,732 5,652
    144 Ishrs Russell 2000 9,175 11,267
    186 Ishrs MSCI Eafe Index Fund 10,374 10,829
    266 Ishrs MSCI Emerging Mkts 7,771 12,673
    1040.29 shrs Pimco Fds Pac Invt Mngt 11,464 10,933
    115 shrs S&P 500 10,745 14,461
    68 shrs Standard & Poors Midcap 400 8,100 11,198
    302.177 shrs Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corp. 8,647 11,558
    113 shrs 3m Company 8,922 9,752
    130 shrs Abbott Laboratories 6,124 6,228
    145 shrs Aetna Inc. 5,941 4,424
    233 shrs Alcoa Inc. 6,327 3,586
    245 shrs Altria Group Inc. 4,565 6,032
    197 shrs American Express Company 11,134 8,455
    95 shrs Ameriprise Finl Inc. 2,749 5,467
    238 shrs Bank of America Corp. 8,224 3,175
    150 shrs Berkshire Hathaway 9,367 12,017
    227 shrs Brunswick Corp. 6,479 4,254
    110 shrs Caterpillar Inc. 6,490 10,303
    110 shrs Chevron Corp. 7,544 10,038
    150 shrs Cigna Corp. 5,913 5,499
    235 shrs Citigroup Inc. 11,804 1,112
    98 shrs Clorox Co. 6,297 6,201
    150 shrs Conocophillips 9,011 10,215
    150 shrs Dow Chemical Co. 6,125 5,121
    190 shrs Duke Energy Corp. 3,495 3,384
    88 shrs Eaton Corp. 6,384 8,933
    59 shrs Energizer Holdings Inc. 3,311 4,301
    456 shrs General Electric Co. 13,407 8,340
    212 shrs General Mills Inc. 6,012 7,545
    114 shrs Hartford Finl Services Group Inc. 6,883 3,020
    155 shrs Honeywell International 6,512 8,240
    67 shrs ITT Corp. 3,644 3,491
    106 shrs Kimberly Clark Corp. 6,920 6,682
    120 shrs Kraft Foods Inc. CL A 3,408 3,781
    80 shrs Lockheed Martin Corp. 6,856 5,593
    135 shrs Nicor Inc. 6,214 6,739
    145 shrs Philip Morris International Inc. 6,275 8,487
    142 shrs Plum Creek Timber Co. Inc. 5,061 5,318
    200 shrs Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. 6,091 6,362
    142 shrs Royal Dutch Shell Plc 9,831 9,483
    158 shrs Spectra Energy Corp. 3,759 3,948
    174 shrs Target Corp. 10,242 10,463
    270 shrs Textron Inc. 12,127 6,383
    82 shrs Thomas & Betts Corp. 3,834 3,961
    192 shrs Wase Management Inc. 6,951 7,079
    134 shrs Wells Fargo & Co. 9,130 4,153

    TY 2010 LegalFeesSchedule
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    Chuhak & Tecson PC Legal 120      


    TY 2010 OtherExpensesSchedule
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Description Revenue and Expenses per Books Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    Sectary of State Filing Fee 10      
    Attorney General 15      
    Foreign Tax 60      


    TY 2010 OtherIncomeSchedule2
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Description Revenue And Expenses Per Books Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income
    Litigation Income 339 339  


    TY 2010 OtherProfessionalFeesSchedule
    Name:
    MERIT FOUNDATION
    EIN: 36-4156727
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    Coyle Asset Managment Co. Investment 5,451 5,451   5,451