Endowment funds: Creating a legacy of leadership for the future
An endowment is a permanent fund established for a specific purpose. An endowment may be established by a donor, an institution, or an organization.
The fund’s principal is invested to grow over time; the income it produces is used to support the endowment’s purpose. Our endowment fund will help us achieve our goal of developing in young adults an understanding of government, business, public policy issues and civics, and to foster leadership qualities that will add value to their communities.
Our Initial Goal: $1 Million
A $1 Million dollar endowment would ensure the development of our nation’s future leaders by providing ongoing support for the Nethercutt Fellowship program and annual civic education and leadership forums. A $5 million endowment will allow us to reach more students at the national level and broaden citizenship education opportunities for all Americans. Our long-term goal of a $10 million endowment will allow us to provide citizenship and civics education exposure to colleges and universities, and develop non-university programs to the public at large through media outlets and other modern communications methods. Like all gifts to The George Nethercutt Foundation, a gift to the endowment is tax deductible.
Who can contribute?
Everyone. We want to give people of all economic levels the opportunity to help create a legacy of leadership for our nation’s future leaders. Every gift is meaningful, no matter how small.
Outright or deferred gifts of almost any type – cash, appreciated securities, real estate or other property – are acceptable. (Our Planned Giving and Make a Donation pages provide more information on ways to give) Many donors give a gift in honor of or memory of an individual. Contributions celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, holidays or other special occasions are also popular.
For more information on The George Nethercutt Foundation Endowment or questions about forms of giving to the Endowment, please call our office at 509.742.9362 or e-mail at info@nethercuttfoundation.org.
Endowment FAQs
What is an endowment?
Simply put, an endowment is an investment in the future of The George Nethercutt Foundation. Your gift is invested to provide support for the Foundation and to ensure the principal amount of your gift grows. Your original principal is never spent, only the return on investment (interest) up to a defined percentage. Any remaining interest income is put back into the fund so it continues to grow.
How is an endowment different from annual giving?
Annual giving supports priority needs within the Foundation while endowed giving ensures funds are available for long-term growth. Many donors who contribute to the endowment also support annual needs. Both types of giving are critical to the Foundation’s continued success.
How does an endowment grow?
Your endowment gift is invested and a reasonable spending amount is determined by The Nethercutt Foundation Board of Directors, which reviews that amount annually.
How will I know how my endowment gift is making an impact at The George Nethercutt Foundation?
The Nethercutt Foundation stewards the endowment by providing you with an annual report that illustrates the endowment’s growth and activity. Print and e-mail newsletters will also provide up-to-date information on our current programs and activities throughout the year. While reports are sent annually, you may request a report any time by calling our office.
