Pillars of Evanston

“Make no little plans, for they have no magic to stir men’s blood.”
--Daniel H. Burnham
   Evanstonian, architect, and planner

Imagine! Our Vision:  In 2016, at the Foundation’s 30th anniversary, today’s general endowment of $3 million has risen to $25 million . . . The Foundation is widely recognized for innovative leadership in enhancing the quality of life for all of Evanston. The responsible management of endowed funds and deep understanding of the community encourage an ever-increasing number of individuals, families, organizations, and institutions to partner with ECF to fulfill their charitable goals. Donors and the community-at-large appreciate the Foundation’s multi-faceted support of local nonprofit organizations through its expanding, proactive grants program and sponsorship of a variety of capacity-building workshops and networking opportunities. This leadership in bringing people together to address issues of common concern has resulted in measurable and sustainable progress in strengthening the community for the benefit of all Evanston’s citizens . . . More than $1,000,000 is available annually for the community’s most urgent needs from unrestricted funds alone. Other funds created for other organizations and charitable purposes provide still more grant dollars and support of community programs.

To encourage commitment to this vision for the Evanston’s future, the Foundation is building membership in its Pillars of Evanston Society, in grateful recognition of donors who provide for the community’s future through bequests and estate plans that include the Evanston Community Foundation. As we envision the Foundation’s development into an organization increasingly instrumental in fulfilling the promise of the Evanston community, we acknowledge those in Evanston who make their commitments today to the Evanston of tomorrow by welcoming them as members in this Society.

Here’s how to join the Pillars of Evanston—just two steps:

1. Arrange your estate to include a gift to the Evanston Community Foundation. Common ways to do this are:
   1. Bequest specified in your will
   2. IRA/401k designation of ECF as the beneficiary
   3. Transfer ownership of a life insurance policy
   4. Charitable trusts that name the Foundation as remainder beneficiary
2. Inform the Evanston Community Foundation that you have made the necessary arrangements by returning the form below. This will give us permission to include your name in future listings of Pillars of Evanston members.

Note: We recommend that you discuss these options with your family and with your attorney, accountant, insurance agent or financial planner. If you would like to inform us of your plans in order to receive mailings and invitations to Burnham Society events, but prefer to remain anonymous, please tell us.

To let us know of your plans, please print out the form below and mail a copy to:
evanston! community foundation
1007 Church Street, Suite 108 Evanston, IL 60201
voice 847 492-0990 fax 847 492-0904