As you consider options for year-end giving, keep the AASV Foundation in mind. The AASV Foundation is striving to raise $2 million by AASV’s 50th anniversary in order to improve its long-term effectiveness in fulfilling its mission. The AASV Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and contributions are tax deductible. Members may submit contributions to the Foundation’s general fund on the AASV membership renewal form, or by making a cash contribution to the foundation auction (see www.aasv.org/foundation/2019/auctionlist.php). Additionally, the Leman, Heritage, and Legacy programs form a trio of options for supporting the foundation endowed funds (the funds invested to provide a perpetual source of income) at a variety of giving levels, enabling swine veterinarians at every stage of their careers to contribute to the foundation’s success.
Leman
Twenty years after establishing the Leman Fellow program in the initial effort to build an endowment for the AASV Foundation, the foundation board has re-opened this popular giving opportunity, enabling a new generation to show their support for the swine veterinary profession. Named for the late industry leader and former AASV President Dr Allen D. Leman, the program confers the title of "Leman Fellow" upon those who make a contribution of $1000 or more to the foundation endowment. To date, 134 donors have joined this prestigious giving group.
The Leman Fellows, recognized at www.aasv.org/foundation/leman.htm, form the backbone of the foundation, not only through financial support, but also in service to the organization. The Leman Fellows are invited to attend the foundation’s annual luncheon meeting, and many have served on the foundation board and committees. Are you a Leman Fellow yet? You should be!
Heritage
The Heritage Fellow program represents the next level of support for the foundation, recognizing contributions of $5000 or more. While the Leman Fellow program is based upon monetary donations, Heritage Fellows may select from additional contribution options, including life insurance policies, estate bequests, and retirement plan assets.
To enroll in the program, the donor indicates the type and amount of the contribution when submitting the Heritage Letter of Intent found at www.aasv.org/foundation/documents/heritageform.pdf. Heritage Fellows receive a plaque and lapel pin when they are recognized during the foundation’s annual luncheon. Since the program’s inception in 2001, the roster of Heritage Fellows has grown to 62 members, identified at www.aasv.org/foundation/heritage.htm. Make a lasting difference to ensure the future and create a legacy for swine veterinarians: become a Heritage Fellow!
Legacy
The new Legacy Fund provides an opportunity to recognize a principal donor – or an honoree – through a significant contribution to the endowment. A donor (or multiple donors) may establish and name a Legacy Fund with a gift of $50,000 or more. The fund may be named after the donor or another individual or group. Additionally, the donor designates which one of three foundation mission categories the fund’s proceeds will support: 1) research, 2) education, or 3) long-range issues. See www.aasv.org/foundation/legacy.php for information about establishing a Legacy Fund.
The AASV Foundation’s endowment provides the financial footing that enables the foundation to sustain its support for research, scholarships, externship grants, and other projects well into the future. Endowed contributions, including all donations to the Leman, Heritage, and Legacy programs, are invested to generate income in the form of interest, dividends, and capital gains. The income is used to fund foundation activities, while the original contribution is conserved, helping to assure the organization’s long-term stability and success.
For more information about the AASV Foundation endowment giving programs, or to make a contribution, see www.aasv.org/foundation or contact the AASV Foundation: Tel: 515-465-5255, E-mail: aasv@aasv.org.