In recognition of its longtime donors and supporters, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Warwick’s board of governors has established an endowment fund at the Rhode Island Foundation.

According to a release, the board believes it is important to both invest in the long-term sustainability of the clubs and provide donors with a vehicle to make legacy gifts to support the nonprofit organization forever.

“Our donors and stakeholders are critical to our efforts to provide services to children and families across Kent County and beyond. This support allows us to be innovative, nimble and responsive,” said John Delemontex, Board Chair and Director of Product Operations, MetLife Auto & Home. “We also know there will always be kids who need a Boys & Girls Club. This will establish the foundation to provide and grow financial support long after we are gone.” The endowment was started with $100,000 that came out of club reserves.

“We chose to partner with the Rhode Island Foundation because of their expertise, leadership and understanding of our community needs. We hope our donors and supporters agree with the value of this endowment so we can continue evolving and growing to meet these changing priorities,” said Tom Sweeney, a member of the board and founder of Sweeney Real Estate & Appraisal.

“The generosity of our donors helps us position children and families for success. Our staff see, hear and feel this every day at all three branches. The Rhode Island Foundation is a tremendous partner and I am thrilled that our board decided to take this step to provide donors and children with a lasting gift that will have a positive, sustainable impact for all,” Executive Director Lara D’Antuono said in a statement.

An endowment fund provides a predictable source of income for nonprofit organizations and demonstrates the organization’s commitment to long-term sustainability. With the benefits associated with planned giving, gifts to an endowment can help to align a donor’s philanthropic goals. The name of the endowment at the Rhode Island Foundation is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Warwick Fund.

For more information, visit wbgclubs.org or rifoundation.org, or call Eleanor Acton, Development Director, at 467-4385.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Warwick is a private, nonprofit organization with branches in the Norwood and Oakland Beach neighborhoods in Warwick. The Boys & Girls Clubs serves youth ages 5-18 with special concern for those who need us most to help them become productive, responsible members of society.