Fund Raising & Accountability

Fund Raising & Accountability

A Web direct Capital Campaign is one avenue we'll use to raise funds. We will make selected personal presentations as well. Funds raised will be used for memorial construction and all phases of this endeavor including an endowed trust that will assure perpetual maintenance of the monument and grounds. The estimated cost for this project is $30 million.

The Endowment

A $10 million endowment is part of the estimated expenses. We will continue fund raising after the target amount is reached. More funds for the endowment it will enable us to better insure the perpetual care and maintenance of the memorial, grant scholarships to children of fallen heroes, and help the severely injured.

Fiscal Responsibility

Based on project estimates, which have been painstakingly and repeatedly reviewed, our operating overhead (administrative costs + fund raising costs) is estimated to be 18.20%. Independent Charities of America states that operating overhead should not exceed 25% of total public support and revenue. That is a higher standard than required by the BBB Council on Philanthropy.

Funds will be deposited directly into the Freedom Memorials account at First Citizens Bank. A separate Endowment account will be established and managed by an independent financial officer. A CPA will conduct yearly audits when account deposits reach $250,000. 990 forms will always be available your review.

Reaching Our Funding Goal

Two questions that come up on occasion need to be addressed.

"Do you have a deadline for reaching your funding goal?"

Not at this time. We are evaluating different fundraising options.

"What happens if you do not raise the necessary funds to build the memorial in its present configuration?"

We have several options. First, we can use the funding on hand to build a scaled down design. Second, we can use the funding to produce a stainless and granite plaque for each family of a fallen hero. And third, we can donate the funds to another charity that has successfully been working with the families of fallen heroes.

We do believe our funding goal will be met. But rest assured, all funds that are raised will be used appropriately even if we have to fall back to one of the contingency options.