|
A Talbot County tradition for more than 35 years, the Waterfowl Festival recently took steps to ensure that its mission will continue to be carried out for years to come. Working with the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, the organization has established an endowment fund “to provide a source of lasting support for the Festival,” according to Festival President Albert Pritchett.
As a nonprofit organization, the Waterfowl Festival depends not only on event income, but also donations from businesses and individuals in order to further its threefold mission of wildlife conservation, promotion of wildlife art and the celebration of life on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
One of the region’s most significant cultural heritage events, with an annual economic impact of over $8 million, the Festival brings several hundred renowned artists, sculptors, carvers and other artisans to Easton to display their creative genius during the second weekend of November.
Proceeds from the previous year’s Festival and donor program are distributed each year as grants to fund conservation and education projects within the Mid-Shore region. More than $4.6 million has been awarded since the Festival began in 1971. The 2006 Conservation Grants will be announced later this summer.
“Establishing the endowment fund will sustain the longevity of the Waterfowl Festival and enhance its ability to continue carrying out all aspects of its mission,” said Pritchett.
“It will also provide an opportunity,” he added, “for those who wish to make a gift now or as part of their estate planning, to do so knowing their donation will serve to keep the event and its mission alive long into the future.”
The 2006 Waterfowl Festival will be held in Easton November 10, 11 & 12. For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation, contact the Waterfowl Festival office at 410-822-4567 or visit its website, www.waterfowlfestival.org.
|
