The Life Cycle of Giving
Charitable giving has a life cycle of its own that thrives on donor commitment. Though the Foundation for Endodontics values each one of its contributors, it holds a special place for those who embrace giving for a lifetime. There are many ways to give, and increasing your gift is a simple step that could help propel the Foundation towards success in reaching its $1.35 million goal for the 2015-2016 campaign!
As you can imagine, it takes time to build up a fund large enough to support a grants budget of $1.6 million, in addition to other funding initiatives and day-to-day operations. With a niche constituent group, like endodontists, the pool of prospective donors is limited. Therefore, it is the goal of the Foundation to continually provide an engaging and fulfilling experience for its donors by keeping them abreast of campaign progress and updated on funding efforts, so they stay connected and inspired to continue giving.
The Foundation’s main vehicle for giving is a pledge, payable over five years. The organization provides various levels for donors to begin their charitable giving experience, and it recognizes donors cumulatively. If a donor makes an entry pledge of $1,000 (Patron) and increases later to $1,000 (Benefactor), they would give an additional $1,000 to be recognized at that higher level. A couple of years ago, the Foundation created additional levels to allow donors to climb the pledge ladder at a comfortable speed. All of the Foundation’s giving levels are highlighted below:
| Patron | $1,000 |
| Benefactor | $1,000 |
| Founder | $1,000 |
| Topaz | $1,000 |
| Emerald | $1,000 |
| Diamond | $1,000 |
| Silver | $1,000 |
| Gold | $1,000 |
| Titanium | $1,000 |
| Platinum | $1,000 |
| Named Award | $1,000 |
In early 2016, the Foundation created another opportunity for mature donors to prolong the life cycle of personal giving. Named after the Foundation’s first chairman of the Board of Trustees and founder, the Jacob B. Freedland Society was created to recognize donors making deferred gifts of $1,000 or more. Deferred gifts are gifts that make an impact after the donor’s lifetime, such as bequests or trusts. To learn more about these giving vehicles, visit the Foundation website. If you are ready to discuss such options, please contact the Foundation’s staff.
This year the Foundation celebrates its golden anniversary. The Fundraising Committee encourages every member to celebrate along with us. An increased pledge is the perfect gift for today and for the future of the specialty. There is no one-size-fits-all gift, and the Foundation’s staff is available to customize the perfect plan for you!