$800,000 Bequest Left to Affirmations
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Feb. 19, 2014)
Affirmations Community Center has been named the beneficiary of an anonymous bequest of nearly $800,000, reports Between the Lines.
A press release by Affirmations did not disclose the amount, but did state that the gift was “transformational.”  Reports suggest that money will be used to pay off the LGBT community center’s mortgage.
“Both the board and staff are deeply touched and feel humbled by the generosity of this gift.  We are very moved that someone felt so strongly about the Center and that the critical programs and services being provided by Affirmations continue.  As we begin the next 25 years serving the community, it becomes clear that the sustainability of Affirmations was important to this very special person.  I am grateful to be part of the center during such an exciting time” says Jon Fitzgerald, Interim Executive Director of the Center.
A press release from the center said “With an eye towards long-term sustainability, this transformational gift will be used to accomplish the objectives of Affirmations’ strategic plan.  Ultimately, Affirmations’ Board, staff and Finance Committee will work to determine how best to steward the gift and the resources it provides going forward to ensure sustainability of the organization; this insures the needs of the LGBT community will continue to be met for many years to come.”
“Planned giving can and should be a part of any well-rounded and sustainable fundraising program.  It’s all about meeting the needs of each donor as an individual and their motivations for giving. At the end of the day, regardless of size, all gifts have the potential to be transformational- for the organization receiving them of course, but even more importantly, for the donors and families involved,” said Angela Gabridge, Director of Development.
Affirmations is the community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender people and their allies. Open since 1989 and located in the Detroit suburb of Ferndale, Affirmations provides a welcoming space where people of all sexual orientations, gender identities & expressions, and cultures can find support and unconditional acceptance, and where they can learn, grow, socialize and have fun.  For more information about Affirmations or to support the center, contact Angela Gabridge, Director of Development at (248) 398-7105 ext. 211, or visit the website www.GoAffirmations.org.
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