Nonprofit Donates To Bensenville Politician

ROSEMONT, IL – The Rosemont Public Safety Charitable Foundation gave $750 last year to a Bensenville politician.

The problem: Such a donation is not allowed under federal law.

The foundation enjoys tax-free status under its federal designation as a charitable organization, known as a 501(c)(3) in the tax code. It cannot spend money for political purposes.

The Rosemont group has a page on Rosemont's website. It says the foundation's mission is to improve the quality of life in Rosemont and the surrounding area.

"We do this by supporting other law enforcement and fire organizations while supporting the community when in need," the group said.

Last July, the foundation gave the $750 to the campaign account of Bensenville Village President Frank DeSimone, who retired as a Schiller Park detective last summer.

Asked about the donation, Joe Balogh of the foundation's board said the group wasn't aware of the violation at the time.

"I can see that now," he said in an email Monday. "Frank has been a longtime Schiller Park police officer and our intent was to support a friend - not back or support any political campaign. We have stayed clear of any political contributions as that is not our mission or intent."

Balogh said the foundation would be sure to better separate itself from anything political going forward.

"I truly appreciate you bringing this to our attention as this will not happen again," Balogh told Patch. "I will reach out to advisors to confirm if we need to do anything to rectify this misunderstanding."