|
 Maine Swimming Fundraising Opportunities
April 24, 2007 Swimming and Diving Endowment: The University of Maine Swimming and Diving Endowment was established in 1992 in response to a serious budget cut which threatened the continuation of the program. It has been our primary fundraising focus since that time. Gifts and pledges can be made through the University of Maine Foundation. The fair market value of the endowment is closing in on $400,000 and is currently paying out nearly $18,000 a year to enhance normal operating expenses. A large portion of our support base is of the opinion that support of this effort is our best insurance against future budget issues. Starting Block Initiative: Anyone who has swum at the University of Maine knows the starting blocks are non-standard in appearance and antiquated in their design. Wallace Pool is still one of the premier short-course facilities in the northeast and new starting blocks would be a great enhancement not only to the appearance of the pool but also to the performance of our student-athletes. It will be an ambitious undertaking to replace the current blocks, which have been in service since 1988. We have identified a suitable design that will cost approximately $1500 per lane. Our goal is to identify individuals, groups of individuals, class gifts or businesses who would be interested in sponsoring a lane. A perpetual recognition plaque will be attached to each block, as well as a group recognition plaque to be displayed in the pool area. The block we are hoping to get can been seen here. Anyone interested in become involved with this project, please call Jeff Wren at 207-581-1076 or maineswim@umit.maine.edu.
Annual Giving or One Time Gifts: Gifts made of any amount made directly to the swimming gift accounts or as a result of a campaign initiated by the development office are always welcome. Some alumni or friends are interested in specific projects which they know will be of direct benefit to the team. These can include things that are above and beyond annual operating budgets. Feel free to visit here for many ways to give, including online.
|
