We are proud to announce the launch of DignityUSA’s 50th Anniversary fundraising appeal, The DignityUSA/Fifty and Forward Fund. The money raised in the appeal will support a dynamic vision for the future of DignityUSA, including developing future leaders, international collaboration, engaging programming and community building. We are excited to share that our “mother” Chapter, Dignity/Los Angeles, has jumpstarted the appeal with an initial gift of $20,000. We are also grateful to individual donors who have already made unsolicited contributions to support our 50th Anniversary fundraising initiative. We are so grateful for these initial generous gifts, and for the confidence these represent in the future of DignityUSA. As we approach our 50th anniversary, we have collectively reflected on our past, and taken stock of our current challenges and opportunities through energizing Jubilee conversations in across the country. What we have heard from you in these first rounds of discussions is that you are proud of the Dignity’s legacy, and that you want to see us continue to thrive well into the future. Your reflections have also confirmed that our mission remains vital and relevant, and that we need to be future-forward as we consider innovative programs and approaches to our work that will take us well into the 21st Century. Thus,our appeal, DignityUSA/Fifty and Forward, is aptly named. What is our strategy? Our initial focus will be to call on chapters, major donors, and individuals within our national community who have expressed interest in sustaining our future. We are also reaching out to newly sourced foundations and high value private donors external to our organization. With the assistance of our consultant, Brian Pellot, we have already submitted four grant requests and plan to continue with several more over the next months. Your ideas and contacts within your own network are welcome. Feel free to contact one of us with your suggestions. What can you expect going forward? Over the next months there will be ongoing announcements and updates, along with ideas for how everyone can participate. Support at any financial level is welcome and appreciated. Our guidance so far from our local and national communities and members is clear: our mission and work MUST continue. We anticipate new and exciting experiences as we go into our fiftieth year and the 2019 Chicago Conference. We are ready for the future! We are ready to follow the Spirit! Come join us in any way that you can. Chris Pett, President Lauren Carpenter, Vice President |