Give Back to the Forest

Ways of Giving

Bernheim is 100% visitor, member, and donor-supported. Whether it’s a donation in addition to your annual Bernheim membership or naming Bernheim in your estate plans, every gift matters, and every dollar counts. There are numerous ways to support the projects and initiatives that live out the legacy and future of Bernheim listed below.

Donate

Often the most convenient and meaningful form of giving is undesignated gifts that support our operations. Gifts in the form of cash, check, or credit card can be made in person, through the mail, over the phone, or online. These gifts are typically deductible for federal income tax purposes.

Major Gifts: Giving Circles

Bernheim’s Giving Circles are made of donors who understand that Bernheim is a treasured, trusted organization that deeply invests in our natural environment. These special donors engage with Bernheim staff, trustees, and special guests through unique events and experiences. Giving Circles donors receive a complimentary Bernheim membership and customized benefits for stewarding Bernheim Forest and helping develop the next generation of conservationists.

Members in our Giving Circles receive additional benefits listed below. We invite you to become a member of the Bernheim Giving Circles. For more information, please contact Lauren Furjes via email or at (502) 215-7155.

Planned Giving: The Echo Society

Many giving vehicles are available to help you leave a legacy, including wills, life insurance, and retirement plans. The Echo Society is a special circle of donors who care about leaving an enduring legacy of connecting people with nature. Contact Melissa Raley, Director of Advancement, here or call (502) 215-7137.

Tribute Gifts

Gifts to Bernheim support and further our mission of connecting people with nature. By making a tribute gift, you can also honor or memorialize a loved one while supporting Bernheim.

Did you know many companies offer employer matching gift programs to encourage employees, retirees and/or spouses to contribute to charitable organizations? Most companies who offer these programs match dollar for dollar, and many will even double or triple the impact of your contribution. If your company is eligible, simply request a matching gift form (online or paper) from your employer and submit it completed and signed along with your gift. Your company will then send the matching gift once Bernheim has verified your request.

Pledges & Securities

Pledges, Stock, Donor Advised Funds, & QCDs

Pledges often enable a donor to make a more impactful gift over time. Pledge payment options are flexible, but should be completed by the agreed-upon pledge date.

Donating stock can be a great way to save on taxes and increase the impact of your philanthropy. Please consult a financial advisor before gifting stock or other securities. Bernheim is also eligible to receive gifts from Donor Advised Funds and IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). Contact Melissa Raley, Director of Advancement, here or call (502) 215-7137.