Fellowship and comrades lasting. This single phrase evokes memories of the Emerald Bay Staff standing around the campfire circle singing the Emerald Bay Hymn, shoulder to shoulder, in fellowship. It is a phrase that reminds us of the magic of the island that goes far beyond our time spent there.
But, we all know we are not standing around the campfire alone. We are joined in that circle by the brothers and sisters who came before us, building a special place for all of us to experience.
Together, we are building the future of Emerald Bay. This summer we completed our largest project to date: The Emerald Bay Alumni Campfire Circle. Many years in the making, the renovation is a spectacular testament to the strength and generosity of our community. Meticulously built of interlocking stones, turned to face the bay, and expanded to accommodate more than 750 guests, it is a stunning facility that will be enjoyed by thousands of Campers and Staff for many years to come.
And that is just one project that we have funded. Together, we've sponsored the Mountain Bike and Kayak Programs, helped establish the Rugged Adventurers program, contributed to the new Rifle Range, and donated the New Docks to the waterfront. Of course, these are only a handful of the many ways in which the EBA has supported Camp throughout the years.
Now, as we plan for our future, we are finding ways to ensure our legacy for Emerald Bay. Future generations must be able to continue to count on our support and build their own memories. To that end, we are pleased to announce the creation of The EBA Endowment.
The endowment builds your legacy by placing funds into an investment account that will produce income while preserving the original capital. The revenue produced by our investments will be used in the future to fund our programs in support of Emerald Bay.
Our short-term goal is to contribute to the existing Emerald Bay Campership Program - helping Scouts who would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience Emerald Bay's amazing programs. In the longer term, while we wish to continue providing Camperships, we also plan to use the revenue from the endowment towards larger projects as specific needs arise at Camp.
The EBA Board of Directors will work hard to secure your legacy. We take seriously the responsibility of protecting your investment in Camp.
Consistent with the sense of community and fellowship that makes Emerald Bay so special, our initial goal for the Endowment is to receive donations from 500 individuals over the next two years.
This is truly a "lost bather's drill" -- everyone's help matters! As you know, we're not a huge organization; we're a small non-profit group that relies on our members to contribute. This is why we've set a participation, rather than a financial, goal. It's vital that you send your donation today--whatever the amount.
YOU are critical to the success of this campaign. YOUR donation will make an enormous difference in reaching this goal. YOUR generosity will go towards the long term support and improvement of Emerald Bay.
The more we donate, the more we can do to support Emerald Bay, now and for years to come.
Please make a contribution today!
With Fellowship and Comrades Lasting,
Rich Wise, Fundraising Committee Chairman
Andrew Wilder, EBA Chairman
P.S. - Each of us has an opportunity to build our legacy - but we must do it together. Join your fellow alumni in making your contribution to our Endowment Fund to ensure the ongoing magic of Emerald Bay. Every contribution makes a difference - no matter the size. Help us reach our goal of growing over 500 strong! Contribute today.
