Challenge grant promises to strengthen the Farm’s resiliency for the future and overcome financial hurdles resulting from pandemic
Vermont Business Magazine Shelburne Farms has announced the launch of a special fundraising challenge to strengthen the Farm’s resiliency for the future, including offsetting lost operating revenue due to COVID-19. If the nonprofit can raise $500,000 in new and increased gifts by December 31, 2020, the Robert W. Wilson Trust will contribute an additional $250,000.
“The trustees of the Robert W. Wilson Trust recognize the impact the pandemic has had on the programs and operations of the Farm this year,” explains Alec Webb, Shelburne Farms President. "Their ambitious challenge to inspire additional support for the Farm and our Resiliency Fund will truly advance learning for a sustainable future by helping meet this year’s budget challenges and strengthening the financial position of Shelburne Farms heading into 2021."
When the pandemic hit, the nonprofit increased its investment in offering critical programs for educators online, and opened its walking trails without charge to the community. On Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend alone, some 3,500 people enjoyed the Farm's trails and working landscape. However, on-site revenue generating activities, including summer camps, Children’s Farmyard, property tours, events, inn and restaurant, have all been suspended since March. As a result, Shelburne Farms initially projected a $2.3 million budget shortfall, which a successful challenge will help address.
“So far, over $230,000 has been raised towards our $500,00 goal of new and increased gifts by year's end,” said Robin Turnau, Shelburne Farms Chief Advancement Officer. “We are so grateful to everyone who has already shown their support - we've seen many gifts from new donors, and many longtime friends of the Farm are making additional gifts this year, so we're well on our way toward meeting the challenge.” Additional information about the challenge and support can be found at shelburnefarms.org/wilsonchallenge.
Shelburne Farms is a nonprofit education organization whose mission is to inspire and cultivate learning for a sustainable future. Based on Abenaki land along the shores of Lake Champlain, its campus is a 1,400-acre working farm, forest, and National Historic Landmark. For information, please visit www.shelburnefarms.org.
Source: Shelburne, VT. November, 2020. Shelburne Farms