Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support
Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section
4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER
Employer identification number
53-0259663
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status
(All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 11, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4
5
section 170(b)(1)(A)(iv). (Complete Part II.)
6
7
8
9
receipts from activities related to its exempt functions—subject to certain exceptions, and (2) no more than 331/3% of
its support from gross investment income and unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 tax) from businesses
acquired by the organization after June 30, 1975. See section 509(a)(2). (Complete Part III.)
10
11
e
By checking this box, I certify that the organization is not controlled directly or indirectly by one or more disqualified persons other than foundation managers and other than one or more publicly supported organizations described in section 509(a)(1) or section 509(a)(2).
f
If the organization received a written determination from the IRS that it is a Type I, Type II or Type III supporting organization, check this box
..................................................
g
Since August 17, 2006, has the organization accepted any gift or contribution from any of the following persons?
(i) a person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (ii)
Yes
No
and (iii) below, the governing body of the the supported organization?
................
11g(i)
(ii)
a family member of a person described in (i) above?
......................
11g(ii)
(iii)
a 35% controlled entity of a person described in (i) or (ii) above?
................
11g(iii)
h
Provide the following information about the supported organization(s).
(i) Name of supported organization
(ii) EIN
(iii) Type of organization (described on lines 1- 9 above or IRC section (see instructions))
(iv) Is the organization in col. (i) listed in your governing document?
(v) Did you notify the organization in col. (i) of your support?
(vi) Is the organization in col. (i) organized in the U.S.?
(vii) Amount of support?
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Total
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) (Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, or 8 of Part I or if the
organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to
qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in)
(a) 2007
(b) 2008
(c) 2009
(d) 2010
(e) 2011
(f) Total
1
Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") ....
25,393,268
26,355,311
30,777,628
30,569,863
34,521,391
147,617,461
2
Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf.......
3
The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..
4
Total. Add lines 1 through 3..
25,393,268
26,355,311
30,777,628
30,569,863
34,521,391
147,617,461
5
The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included
on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f)..
6
Public Support. Subtract line 5 from line 4.
147,617,461
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in)
(a) 2007
(b) 2008
(c) 2009
(d) 2010
(e) 2011
(f) Total
7
Amounts from line 4..
25,393,268
26,355,311
30,777,628
30,569,863
34,521,391
147,617,461
8
Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..
781,829
125,158
687,045
737,391
711,287
3,042,710
9
Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..
10
Other income. (Explain in Part IV.) Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets..
7,732
4,372
2,983
92,557
67,515
175,159
11
Total support (Add lines 7 through 10).
150,835,330
12
Gross receipts from related activities, etc. (See instructions.)
..................
12
2,049,086
13
First Five Years
If the Form 990 is for the organization's first, second, third, fourth, or fifth tax year as a 501(c)(3) organization,
check this box and stop here..........................................
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
Public Support Percentage for 2010 (line 6 column (f) divided by line 11 column (f))
.........
14
97.867 %
15
Public Support Percentage for 2009 Schedule A, Part II, line 14
...............
15
97.940 %
16a
33 1/3% support test—2011.
If the organization did not check the box on line 13, and line 14 is 33 1/3% or more, check this box
and stop here. The organization qualifies as a publicly supported organization
......................
b
33 1/3% support test—2010.
If the organization did not check the box on line 13 or 16a, and line 15 is 33 1/3% or more, check this
box and stop here. The organization qualifies as a publicly supported organization
.....................
17a
10%-facts-and-circumstances test—2011.
If the organization did not check a box on line 13, 16a, or 16b and line 14
is 10% or more, and if the organization meets the "facts and circumstances" test, check this box and stop here. Explain
in Part IV how the organization meets the "facts and circumstances" test. The organization qualifies as a publicly supported
organization
..................................................
b
10%-facts-and-circumstances test—2010.
If the organization did not check a box on line 13, 16a, 16b, or 17a and line
15 is 10% or more, and if the organization meets the "facts and circumstances" test, check this box and stop here.
Explain in Part IV how the organization meets the "facts and circumstances" test. The organization qualifies as a publicly supported organization
..............................................
18
Private Foundation
If the organization did not check a box on line 13, 16a, 16b, 17a or 17b, check this box and see
instructions
...................................................
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 509(a)(2) (Complete only if you checked the box on line 9 of Part I or if the organization
failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under
the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in)
(a) 2007
(b) 2008
(c) 2009
(d) 2010
(e) 2011
(f) Total
1
Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .
2
Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose......
3
Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513..
4
Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...
5
The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..
6
Total. Add lines 1 through 5.
7a
Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons...
b
Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.
c
Add lines 7a and 7b..
8
Public Support (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in)
(a) 2007
(b) 2008
(c) 2009
(d) 2010
(e) 2011
(f) Total
9
Amounts from line 6...
10a
Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..
b
Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.
c
Add lines 10a and 10b.
11
Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.
12
Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part IV.)
13
Total support (Add lines 9, 10c, 11 and 12.).
14
First Five Years
If the Form 990 is for the organization's first, second, third, fourth, or fifth tax year as a 501(c)(3) organization,
check this box and stop here.............................................
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
Public Support Percentage for 2011 (line 8 column (f) divided by line 13 column (f))
.........
15
16
Public support percentage from 2010 Schedule A, Part III, line 15
...............
16
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
Investment income percentage for 2011 (line 10c column (f) divided by line 13 column (f))
......
17
18
Investment income percentage from 2010 Schedule A, Part III, line 17
.............
18
19a
33 1/3% support tests—2011.
If the organization did not check the box on line 14, and line 15 is more than 33 1/3% and line 17 is not more than 33 1/3%, check this box and stop here. The organization qualifies as a publicly supported organization
..........
b
33 1/3% support tests—2010.
If the organization did not check a box on line 14 or line 19a, and line 16 is more than 33 1/3% and line 18 is not more than 33 1/3%, check this box and stop here. The organization qualifies as a publicly supported organization
....
20
Private Foundation
If the organization did not check a box on line 14, 19a or 19b, check this box and see instructions
.....
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 4
Part IV
Supplemental Information.
Supplemental Information. Complete this part to provide the explanation required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; or Part III, line 12. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
Explanation
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Additional Data
Software ID:
Software Version:
-
TIN:
SCHEDULE O (Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ
Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER
Employer identification number
53-0259663
Identifier
Return Reference
Explanation
Organization's Mission
Form 990, Part III, Line 1
MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER mission is to create innovative exchange, education, cultural, and policy programs that advance three goals: - Strengthen U.S. engagement with the world through the power of exchange - Prepare public and private sector leaders for a complex global future - Provide a neutral forum for international collaboration across sectors
Program Service Activity #1
Form 990, Part III, Line 4A
INTERNATIONAL VISITOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAM (IVLP) - THIS PROGRAM, WHICH DATES BACK TO THE 1940S, IS MERIDIAN'S LARGEST AND LONGEST RUNNING GOVERNMENT GRANT. WORKING WITH THE U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT'S BUREAU OF EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS, MERIDIAN ANNUALLY INTRODUCES ABOUT 1,800 INDIVIDUALS, WHO ARE EMERGING LEADERS IN DIVERSE PROFESSIONAL FIELDS SUCH AS GOVERNMENT, POLITICS, MEDIA, EDUCATION, THE ARTS AND THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT SECTOR, TO THE UNITED STATES. MERIDIAN IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING THE CONTENT OF THE VISITORS PROGRAMS, INCLUDING RELEVANT MEETINGS AND EVENTS, CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, AND LOGISTICAL ASPECTS SUCH AS TRAVEL AND LODGING. MERIDIAN'S SIGNATURE PROGRAMS FOR FISCAL 2012 WERE THE SPIRIT OF VOLUNTEERISM: HONORING 50 YEARS OF THE PEACE CORPS, WHICH BROUGHT 52 LEADERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO THE UNITED STATES TO EXAMINE VOLUNTEERISM AND COMMUNITY SERVICE AND EXPLORE SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP, A PROJECT ON THE ARAB SPRING FOR YOUNG LEADERS FROM THE MIDDLE EAST WHO PARTICIPATED IN YOUNG LEADERS RISE: RENEW, INSPIRE, SERVE AND EMPOWER, AND THE ANNUAL EDWARD R. MURROW PROGRAM FOR JOURNALISTS WHICH EXAMINED THE ROLE AND OPERATIONS OF A FREE PRESS IN A MODERN DEMOCRACY. MERIDIANS ALUMNI INCLUDE 158 FORMER AND CURRENT HEADS OF STATE, INCLUDING 3 WHO BECAME HEADS OF GOVERNMENT IN 2012: PRIME MINISTER LARS LOKKE RASMUSSEN OF DENMARK, PRIME MINISTER ENDA KENNY OF IRELAND AND PRME MINISTER JHAL NATH KHANAL OF NEPAL.
Program Service Activity # 2
Form 990, Part III, Line 4B
GlobalConnect: Customized Exchange Programs. Meridian's programs bring high potential leaders from around the world to the United States to interact with U.S. counterparts, to learn from mentors, and to return to their home countries to make their impact in the business, political, and social sectors. Through exchange, perspectives are broadened, leading to better decisions and stronger relationships in the world. We partner with U.S. Embassies, local and international non-governmental organizations, foreign governments, and private sector organizations to develop and execute comprehensive cross-sector leadership programs that build relationships and impact perspectives. These programs, which are run by Meridian's GlobalConnect division, offer a tailored approach to specific outcomes or needs of participants. GlobalConnect also offers participant selection processes, training programs during or prior to the visit, extended or compressed schedules, online platforms for networking, and follow-up activities.
Program Service Activity #3
Form 990, Part III, Line 4C
Art for Cultural Diplomacy. Our Cultural Diplomacy Program creates a platform for U.S. and international audiences to learn about nations around the world through conferences, trainings, and exhibitions that emphasize socially relevant topics and important world regions, while promoting partnerships with local and national organizations. Meridian works with embassies, ministries of culture, museums, collections, collectors, and artists worldwide, with exhibitions reaching over 366 host venues in 44 U.S. states and 56 countries - including 18 locations in 2012. In addition, Meridian partners with the Independent Television Service (ITVS) to offer the Global Perspective Film Series - monthly screenings of documentaries focused on international issues of relevance followed by moderated discussions. Using exhibitions as a focal point, cultural outreach programs deepen the impact of the artworks. At these events, visiting artists discuss their work, dancers demonstrate their traditions, and speakers offer additional insight into relationships among cultures. Meridian also frequently partners with local institutions to foster community interest in and support for the arts. Unfortunately recent funding for the arts has been limited. But because we believe that meaningful engagement starts when leaders enter with a shared understanding of their counterpart's culture and history, we continue to run these programs at a deficit of approximately $350,000 per year.
Other Program Services
Form 990, Part III, Line 4D
Visitor Services: In support of U.S. Department of State-sponsored International Visitors, Meridian offers the following services for all Washington, DC-based programming agencies: Meridian arranges home hospitality informal dinners for visitors to experience family life in the U.S. and provide understanding of other cultures; Capitol Hill "Insider" tours conducted by Congressional staffers provide a unique behind-the-scenes perspective and brief visitors on the role of Congress as well as architecture and history of the building; Federalism briefings offer visitors a basic understanding of the U.S. system of government from an experienced presenter. Global Service Leaders (GSL) addresses community challenges through volunteerism by helping volunteer leaders strengthen their role as leaders and connect them to a global community of peers and mentors. GSL supports volunteers in their application of best practices, helps them develop important leadership skills, and provides them the network and resources to overcome inevitable challenges. The International Children's Festival is a partnership with Cultural Tourism DC and presented as part of Passport DC. It is open to the public and benefits children of all ages by showcasing the cultures of the participating foreign diplomatic communities through dance, music, costumes, art, activies, and food. The Meridian Global Leadership Institute offers focused, practical, cost-effective opportunities (such as conferences, classes, workshops, online forums, leadership exchanges, or study tours) to acquire the insights, skills, and tools needed to work effectively in the global environment. The programs will benefit any executive or manager at all levels from corporations, small-businesses, NGOs, or government agencies, whose strategic or operational responsibilities extend across borders. For example, the programs prepare participants to manage global risks, understand the complex interplay of economic, political, social, and cultural forces that impact global competitiveness, establish a culture of innovation and adoption of best practices, and achieve strategic alliances and public-private partnerships. Other Program Services from Meridian include the creation, development, management, and/or facilitation of conferences and public programs that provide an atmosphere for participants to engage and discuss the key issues of the day, ranging from green technology and food security to global health and emerging market economies. Meridian brings U.S. and international experts together to offer both a domestic and international perspective on such issues and key factors that drive those perceptions. These conferences can range from half-day to multi-day events and can be designed for both an in-house audience or can be accessible to the public. Description Grants Expenses Revenue Visitor Services 718,971 Global Service Leaders (GSL) 470,756 Int'l Children's Festival 46,752 Global Leadership Institute 70,309 Conferences & Other Public Programs 364,336 Bridges of Understanding 57,472 THIS 75,000 121,889 463,212 Totals 75,000 1,850,485 463,212
Form 990 Review Process
Form 990, Part VI, Line 11B
The 2011 Form 990 was prepared by an external public accounting firm and reviewed by the accounting manager. The CFO then forwarded the form 990 to the audit and finance committee of the board for their review. Once reviewed and approved, the audit and finance committee recommended approval of the Form 990 to the executive committee. A copy of the form 990 will be made available to all members of the board of directors after the filing or on the next board meeting on October 2nd, 2013.
Conflict of Interest Policy Monitoring & Enforcement
Form 990, Part VI, Line 12C
OFFICERS, TRUSTEES, AND KEY EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO DISCLOSE THEIR POTENTIAL CONFLICTS TO THE SENIOR MANAGEMENT PERSONS WHO ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING IF AN ACTUAL CONFLICT EXISTS. ACTUAL CONFLICTS ARE REPORTED TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES. THE SENIOR MANAGEMENT PERSONS HAVE REGULAR WEEKLY MEETINGS TO CONSISTENTLY MONITOR AND ENFORCE COMPLIANCE WITH THE POLICY. PERSONS WITH A CONFLICT ARE PROHIBITED FROM ALL DELIBERATIONS AND DECISIONS RELATED TO THE TRANSACTION.
Process for Determining Compensation
Form 990, Part VI, Lines 15A & 15B
FOR CEO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OR TOP MANAGEMENT, COMPENSATION IS DETERMINED BY INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES THROUGH A COMPENSATION COMMITTEE, AND FOR OTHER OFFICERS OR KEY EMPLOYEES IS DETERMINED BY THE CFO AND HR DIRECTOR. Meridian's compensation committee reviews comparable salary information from other organizations, discusses its decision, and documents its decision in contemporaneous minutes.
How Documents are made available to the public
Form 990, Part VI, Line 19
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, THE CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY AND THE GOVERNING DOCUMENTS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
Other Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balance
Form 990, Part XI, Line 5
Unrealized gains on investments $580,980
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.