In September 2006, the Kresge Foundation made a $600,000 challenge grant to the College in support of the campaign. Since many of our alumni and supporters have asked questions about the Kresge challenge and what it means for Keuka, we’ve compiled this list of FAQs for you to reference.
What is the Kresge Foundation?
The Kresge Foundation, based in Troy, Mich., is an independent, private foundation created in 1924 by the personal gifts of Sebastian S. Kresge (he of the 5 and 10-cent stores). Its core grant-making program focuses on opportunities to strengthen leadership and giving through challenge grants for capital projects. The foundation awards $132 million a year in grants. For more: www.kresge.org.
What is the Kresge Challenge?
While most challenge grants are based on colleges or organizations matching funds, the Kresge challenge is all about increasing participation.
In other words, we need to raise funds and friends. We have to raise $9.4 million to receive the Kresge Foundation’s $600,000. However, we also need to broaden and deepen our giving base—particularly alumni—to receive the Kresge funds, complete the Ball Hall renovation, and take advantage of future opportunities to strengthen the College.
How can I help meet the challenge?
The best way you can help us meet the Kresge Challenge is to make a gift or pledge to The Campaign to Save Ball Hall. You can send your full gift now, or make a pledge that is payable over three years.
Does the size of the gift matter?
Every gift, large and small, matters. Remember, we want to increase participation. But there’s three things to keep in my mind as you contemplate your gift:
- It’s vital that those who support the campaign also maintain their usual support of the Keuka Fund, which funds many day-to-day operations of the College and makes scholarships available to deserving students.
- While it’s important to add new folks to our giving rolls, it also has a positive impact on the campaign when our regular supporters make a larger, “stretch gift” beyond his or her usual giving level.
- A gift of $1,500 or more will ensure that your name will be inscribed on the Wall of Donors in the lobby of the new-look Ball Hall.
How close is the College to reaching the $10 million goal?
At press time, we needed to raise $510,199 to meet the Kresge Challenge and receive the $600,000 that will put us over the top.
When does the campaign conclude?
The Campaign to Save Ball Hall and the Kresge Challenge both end Jan. 31, 2008.
