Generations Initiative, a matching gift program for Marshall County's future
May 2007 -- The Marshall County Community Foundation (MCCF) is very pleased to announce an initiative that allows existing and new fund holders to benefit generations of Marshall County citizens.  Every dollar contributed by a permanent fund holder, up to $100,000 per fund, will receive a 25-cent match from the MCCF Generations Initiative—adding a potential maximum of $25,000 extra to the permanent fund you have established. This opportunity is the first time in the Foundation’s history that a donor will receive matching funds directly from the Foundation.

Matching money simply means that you can now give a monetary gift of your choice to one of over 200 funds held by the Community Foundation, or start a new fund, with the Foundation adding more money for every dollar you contribute!  Contribute one dollar to your existing fund, and the MCCF will add a quarter. For every four dollars added to your existing fund, the MCCF will add a dollar. Make an additional gift of $100,000 to your fund and receive the maximum extra benefit of $25,000 in additional principal.

The Foundation will provide a maximum of $500,000 of matching funds for the Generations Initiative, and matching funds will be awarded on a first come, first served basis through June 30, 2008 or until the $500,000 is expended.  Individuals and groups are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to establish a new permanent fund with a minimum $5,000. While the initial $5,000 cannot be matched through the Generations Initiative, all additional contributions beyond the initial investment will receive the matching grant from the Foundation. For example, a permanent fund created with a $10,000 investment quickly becomes one worth $11,250.  A $50,000 permanent fund established within the timeframe of the initiative quickly has a value of $61,250.

Investments in the Foundation consistently earn annual interest, but this initiative will allow you to enhance your fund’s assets almost immediately. Contributions made during a quarter will be matched on the first business day of the next quarter.  For example, a contribution on May 15, 2007 will receive its match on July 1, 2007. Please note the Generations Initiative applies only to permanent funds with the MCCF. Non-permanent funds may convert and realize the match on all funds except the initial $5,000.

The Generations Initiative is a wonderful opportunity for the citizens of Marshall County to leave a lasting benefit to future generations. The matching funds will strengthen each fund to provide even greater impact.

For more information about the Generations Initiative, contact the Marshall County Community Foundation at (574) 935-5159.