As the new President of
the Eden Prairie Foundation, I truly feel privileged and honored
to be able to make a difference in the community I care so
much about. I would like to tell you about several exciting
things that are taking place. In a few weeks, funds will be
awarded to the latest recipients at our Fall Grant Distribution
Breakfast. Past recipients have included the Eden Prairie
Fire and Police Departments, the Eden Prairie School District
and Park System, PROP and the PROP Shop. These are just some
examples of how Foundation dollars are used to positively
impact the lives of our citizens. Since its inception in 1981,
the Foundation has awarded over $850,000 in grants and scholarships
to deserving community organizations.
Save the Date!
The Foundation’s biggest fundraiser for the year is
the annual ball. This year the Ball will take place on Saturday,
February 9, 2008 at the Minnetonka Marriott Southwest. The
theme is “That’s Amore” and our volunteer
committee is working hard to ensure that it will be memorable,
successful and fun! Questions? Call Lisa Toomey on (952) 221-2123.
We are excited to announce that at a recent Foundation Board
meeting, a strategic planning committee was authorized to
look at the Foundation’s history, look at present community
needs unmet by tax dollars or other funding resources, and
to project what the Foundation’s strategy should be
to meet the changing needs of our “Top Ten Community”.
The committee was charged to report back to the Board within
six months with its recommendations. We look forward to hearing
their findings and acting on them so we can build an even
stronger Foundation to enhance the lives of Eden Prairie families
and organizations going forward.
There is an important group of Foundation contributors called
“The Century Club. Gold Century Club members donate
$500, Silver - $250 and regular Century Club membership is
$100. If you aren’t currently a member, please consider
becoming a member by writing a check made out to: The Eden
Prairie Foundation. You can mail your contribution to:
The Eden Prairie Foundation
8080 Mitchell Road
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Since the Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Corporation, consider
naming the Foundation as a recipient for your planned giving.
Under current tax law, 2007 offers a last opportunity for
those individuals 70.5 years of age and older to roll over
their minimum required distributions or up to $100,000 from
IRA balances to eligible non-profit organizations such as
the Eden Prairie Foundation. As always, it is advised that
you consult your tax advisor about such opportunities.
If you are a current supporter of the Foundation, thank you.
If you aren’t, please consider this a heartfelt invitation
to become one. Help us continue to create a better quality
of life and make the city a special place to live and work.
Regards,
Gary Stevens, President
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