$300,000 Challenge for the Future of Lake George

Bolton Landing, NY — The Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) has announced a public challenge to raise $300,000 by Thanksgiving. Manning and Virginia Rowan Smith have presented this challenge to encourage those who support the protection of Lake George to join LGLC’s Land and Water Society.

The Land and Water Society is the LGLC’s legacy society, celebrating those who include the LGLC in their estate planning. It can be through a simple bequest, by naming the LGLC as a beneficiary in a life insurance policy or retirement fund, or one of many other options available. The gift can be large or small, and its benefits will continue long after one’s lifetime.

From now until November 26, 2020, the Smiths will donate $5,000 to the LGLC for every new legacy pledge received, regardless of method, amount or designation. If you wish to include a specific dollar amount with your pledge that is above $5,000, they will match that, up to a total of $300,000!

The details of your pledge may be kept anonymous, or you may choose to let us know the details of your intentions. Upon receipt, your gift will be used according to your wishes, as specified on your pledge form. The Smith’s match will be added to the Virginia Rowan Smith Endowment, which helps the LGLC with current and future capital projects.

Virginia Rowan Smith is a member of the LGLC’s Advisory Board and a trustee emeritus.

“I believe that every one of us who loves the Lake wants to do something to protect it,” said Mrs. Smith, “and the Lake George Land Conservancy offers you a special opportunity to do so. Estate planning is one of the most powerful ways for you to help ensure that your vision for Lake George is preserved for your children and for all future generations.

“Manning and I want to encourage folks to join the LGLC’s planned giving society, and over a year ago, we decided to put forth a matching funds challenge. When I talk with others who have joined this Society, I always sense a feeling of accomplishment, and a feeling of pride that no matter what decisions they make going forward in terms of life’s priorities, they have created a legacy for Lake George.”

To be included in this challenge, your pledge must be received by November 26, 2020. Those wishing to participate in the challenge may make their pledge online, with the LGLC’s confidential pledge form, or by downloading a paper copy and mailing it to the LGLC. These options and more information are at lglc.org/land-and-water-society. Questions and comments may be directed to Helen Barton Benedict, LGLC’s development manager, at 518-644-9673 or hbartonbenedict@lglc.org.

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