FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rim Country Educational Foundation Announce Testamentary Gift
July 1, 2013 Payson, Arizona – Rim Country Educational Foundation (RECF) received its first testamentary gift this week, announced Foundation Treasurer and Fundraising Committee Co-Chairperson Richard Johnson. The Foundation has been the beneficiary of several fundraising campaigns to support the goal of bringing a university campus to Payson.
A testamentary gift is a gift of property under the terms of a will. Typically, such gifts are given from personal property, upon the death of the testator (the person who signed the will). Traditionally, a testamentary gift is given in money, but also may be made in real or personal property, or from a trust.
“Last week’s announcement regarding the direct sale of the forest service property motivated this couple to finalize a bequest they had been considering,” commented Johnson. “They wanted to be sure that a portion of their estate specifically benefited Payson and the Rim Country. They felt that RCEF and its mission to further educational opportunities for Rim Country was the best avenue to fulfill their wish.”
Since 2012, RCEF has raised over $175,000 from the community to cover pre-development costs associated with the USFS land acquisition. Many organizations, events, and individuals contributed to meeting this goal and keeping the pre-development process on track. Some pre-development processes are still underway., and The Foundation will be able to cover the immediately foreseeable costs. “But there could be more expenses on the horizon,” noted Johnson. “The process is moving forward, but we don’t have the deed to the property just yet.”
“Trusts, wills, and end-of-life planning present an opportune time to assess charitable giving,” commented Fundraising Committee Co-Chair Janet Vidnovic. “Many times, people don’t address their wishes clearly. They also don’t think about how valuable a gift can be in the future. This couple’s gift will allow the Foundation to continue to benefit Rim Country youth for many years to come.”
Once the land acquisition process is complete, RCEF will turn its focus to scholarship programs for Rim Country youth. Mogollon Health Alliance, the umbrella charitable organization for RCEF, recently awarded $20,000 in scholarships to Payson High School students.
“I am truly grateful and amazed by efforts of the many talented and dedicated people in Payson who worked so hard to make this happen,” praised Payson Mayor Kenny Evans. The community has a renewed excitement about the future that is contagious and invigorating!”
Under the umbrella of Mogollon Health Alliance (MHA), Rim Country Educational Foundation qualifies as a 501c(3) tax-exempt organization. Donations, which are tax-deductible charitable contributions, may be made via check, cash, PayPal, or credit card. The Foundation’s address is 308 Aero Drive, Payson, Arizona 85541. Donations may also be made through the campus informational website at www.universityinpayson.com. A link to the webpage is also found on Facebook at PaysonU.