Advancement Notes

At Merck Forest & Farmland Center, we view philanthropy as a partnership opportunity. Actualizing our donors’ values through support of the principles that guide MFFC is our highest goal. We welcome the opportunity to learn what motivates you and are excited to learn how best to match your desire to make a positive difference with Merck Forest’s interests and needs.

MFFC’s philanthropic community has been nothing short of amazing in recent years. Together, we have grown the institution’s ability to meet mission, reach out to new visitors and audiences and do what we love to do - inspire curiosity, love and responsibility for natural and working lands. We hope that in doing so, we have gained your trust and confidence.

As MFFC continues to build a funding pipeline to meet the goals of our newly minted Master Plan, we will seek out your perspective on how gifts can best accomplish your goals as well as ours. We look forward to deeping relationships with our members and donors and manifesting your deepest values through your generosity. Thank you!

Ways you can support Merck Forest & Farmland Center

Encourage membership! A $50 year-long membership helps us to keep the gates open, the farm and forest cared for and our wonderful property safe for visitors. Memberships at the $75 level offer a Staff selected nature book. Tell others to visit merckforest.org/getinvolved for more information.

Support MFFC’s Annual Fund - General operating support is crucial for nonprofit institutions to remain whole. Your support helps facilitate the programs, learning opportunities and initiatives that you see when on property and read about in the Ridgeline.

Consider a larger or more expansive gift this year. Rob@merckforest.org and/or Liz@ merckforest.org are always available to discuss recurring donations, gifts of securities or stock, and planned or legacy giving.

Volunteer! We love when MFFC enthusiasts want to share their time and expertise.

Purpose. Action. Impact.

GRAPHIC & PHOTO CREDITS:

Cara Davenport: p. 7, 10, 11, 12, 13

Liz Ruffa: p. 6, 11, 13, 16, • Elena Santos: p. 6

Anna Terry: p. 13

• Sue Van Hook: p. 13

• Hadley Stock: p. 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 17, 18, 19

• Danielle Zimmerman: Front cover and back cover, p. 13, 14, 17

Content: MFFC Advancement Office

• Magazine layout: Peppergrass Design Studio

Connection is the action of linking one thing to another. At Merck Forest, we connect people with nature. We strive to create connection and community - one visitor, student, family or group at a time.

Time spent outdoors is invaluable for us all.