Major Gifts
Thank you for considering a major investment in the future of recreation and community activities and offerings in Lincoln. At Lincoln Sports, a major gift is any contribution of $10,000 or more. These gifts have an immediate and profound impact, expanding access, strengthening programs, and allowing us to plan confidently for the future. Major donors play a catalytic role in helping us build a sustainable, inclusive, and safe environment for our entire community. Your generosity fuels the work that shapes the lives of our community every day.
Types of Major Gifts
1. Direct Major Gift (One-Time Contribution)
A single gift of $10,000+ used immediately for mission-critical needs. Examples of these gifts can support the ongoing trail building on Lincoln Sports property, restoration of the tennis courts, camperships for Lincoln Sports campers, support for more multigenerational events and activities. By providing a one-time contribution you allow Lincoln Sports to immediately impact the community.
2. Multi-Year Pledge
A commitment spread over several years (e.g., $10,000 per year for three years). This type of pledge allows you, the donor, to increase impact while managing your giving and it allows Lincoln Sports to have a source of predictable support for long-term planning.
3. Programmatic or Restricted Major Gift
A gift designated for a specific initiative meaningful to you. We have received gifts that have been specifically designated towards the trail building project, youth sports, tennis court refurbishment, and camperships for Lincoln Sports summer campers. We maintain financial records of these restrictions ensuring that your funds go towards the projects of your choice.
4. Matching Gift or Challenge Gift
A donor commits a leadership gift that “unlocks” additional support by encouraging others to give. These gifts amplify impact by creating momentum within the community.
How to Explore a Major Gift
If you’re considering a major gift to Lincoln Sports, we would welcome a conversation. We can help you understand our program priorities, structure a gift aligned with your values, document multi-year commitments, and decide between unrestricted and restricted support. Reach out to info@lincolnsports.org or call Andy Soares White at (617) 686-0358 for more information.
Why We Do Not Promote Endowment Gifts
While some nonprofits rely on endowments, they tend to generate 4–5% annually, require a large principal to be impactful, and can come with some significant administrative fees for the management of the funds. At our current size, direct planned gifts or beneficiary designations seem to be more effective at strengthening our programs immediately and sustainably.
However, if you do wish to explore an endowed fund, please contact us at info@lincolnsports.org or (617) 686-0358 so we can discuss whether it will meet your philanthropic goals.
