Richard Walter of Shickley describes NCF’s intergenerational transfer of wealth study as, “a real eye-opener. I couldn’t believe how big the numbers were.” Shickley (pop. 341) is located in Fillmore County, where, in the next 50 years or so, nearly $2 billion will transfer from one generation to the next.
The numbers are so large, in fact, that NCF volunteers talk about the transfer of wealth within a 10-year period of time so donors can better grasp the opportunity. Their goal is to unleash at least five percent of the wealth transfer’s abundant assets to build stronger, more vibrant hometowns.
Explaining the impact of the transfer of wealth helped open donor doors for Richard and other Shickley volunteers. “When we showed them the numbers, people realized we weren’t there for a $50 donation,” Richard said, only half joking.
Shickley leads NCF community funds in harnessing a proportion of their community’s intergenerational wealth transfer. The Fund has $2,057,128 in current assets and nearly all assets are endowed. Another $1,960,780 is promised through planned estate gifts for the future.
Shickley volunteers are as adamant about reinvesting in their community as they are successful with fundraising. Since 2002 they have granted $392,243 to area nonprofits, village projects, and importantly, the school, which has received more than $110,000. Students in Shickley benefit from top notch programs, equipment and materials.
The Fund uses all of its annual endowment payout to award grants in the fall and spring. And each year, more dollars are available to enrich the lives of residents, young and old. If you volunteer for the fire department, work as a teacher, frequent the public library, take a dip in the pool, have a blast at summer camp, or do just about anything in your hometown, you benefit from the generosity of your neighbors in Shickley.
