$52-Million Bequest Will Finance Education Fund; Other New Gifts
Four institutions have received big gifts: The Arizona Community Foundation, in Phoenix, has received a $52-million bequest from John Ellis to endow the Ellis Center for Educational Excellence, a supporting organization that will focus on improving public education in the state. Mr. Ellis, who died…
Anti-Malaria Efforts Get $258-Million From Gates
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced last week $258.3-million in grants for research to develop a vaccine for malaria and other efforts to fight the deadly disease. Calling the disease a “forgotten epidemic,” Mr. Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, said more needs to be done to stop…
By Ian Wilhelm
Contributor
A Legacy for the Godfather of Gonzo
Family and friends of Hunter S. Thompson build a foundation to honor the late journalistWoody Creek, Colo. A year ago, here in the shadow of red cliffs amid the Rocky Mountains, Hunter S. Thompson, the gonzo journalist and author, sat in the kitchen of his home with his wife, Anita, and Ralph…
By Michael Anft
Contributor
Scrutiny Prompts Many Foundations to Make Governance Changes
A majority of foundations are strengthening governance practices as a result of increased scrutiny by ALSO SEE:Giving Charities a Voice federal and state regulators, a new study suggests. The study, which surveyed chief executives and board members at 53 of the nation’s wealthiest foundations, says…
By Ian Wilhelm
Contributor
Alliance for Healthy Homes (Washington): Appointed Robert O. Zdenek, a consultant for government agencies and nonprofit organizations, based in Washington, to be executive director. Arab American Institute (Washington): Appointed Christine Saah Nazer, assistant news director at USA Today (McLean,…
Following are summaries of recent reports by the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. This private group reports on whether charities meet standards for fund raising, governance, financial management, and public information. The alliance does not approve or disapprove of charities, and urges potential donors…
Interest Rates for Planned Gifts
Following are the interest rates, provided by the Internal Revenue Service, for computing charitable deductions for charitable remainder trusts, gift annuities, charitable lead trusts, and some other deferred gifts. November 2005 5.0% October 5.0% September 5.0% August 4.8% July 4.6% June 4.8% May…
Status and recent results of drives for endowments, capital improvements, and other needs Started or announced Closing date Goal Amount raised Purpose Brown U. (R.I.) Oct. 2005 Dec. 2010 $1,400,000,000 $575,000,000 For endowment, facilities, and programs Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (Md.) Oct. 2005…