Invest in OLLI's Future
What is the OLLI Member Fund?
Like other Osher Institutes nationwide, our OLLI is supported in part by an endowment from the Osher Foundation and member fees. However, these revenue sources do not cover the costs needed for our OLLI to grow and thrive, and fundraising is an expectation of all OLLIs. When Kirsty Montgomery started as director nearly five years ago, a key priority was to create an annual fund and build a culture of philanthropy among our members. The OLLI Member Fund has grown since then, with a very positive response from our member community.
In 2018, more than 35% of OLLI members contributed to the fund. Our goal for 2019 is to surpass that participation rate.
The Impact of Your Support
The Member Fund is used for strategic priorities. This year's focus is:
- Enhanced academic enrichment opportunities: study group/coordinator resources, special programs and guest speakers
- Acoustic improvements, hearing assistance devices, and sound transmission systems
- Membership support and enhanced technology: accessibility for all of our members, including portable hearing devices for field trips and technology to participate virtually
- Increased diversity and outreach activities
- Continued need-based scholarships
How to Give
If you would like to make your gift online, click the purple 'GIVE NOW' button below. By participating — at any level — you are demonstrating your commitment to and appreciation for OLLI, both for today and tomorrow. Your gift will support the academic experience and build community, and help strengthen the OLLI program in the future.
All gifts are tax-deductible and can be given in honor or in memory of a loved one or OLLI member. Contributions are processed through the Northwestern Development Office and are restricted for OLLI's exclusive use.
If you have questions about the OLLI Member Fund or would like more information about making a gift, please contact Elizabeth Lach, Director of Development, at elizabeth.lach@northwestern.edu or 847-491-4891
OLLI Development Committee 2019-20
For questions, feel free to reach out to the chairs of the Development Committee, the OLLI staff, or the Director of SPS Development:
Chicago Chair: Joe Hinkel
Evanston Chair: Susan Kay
OLLI Staff: Lisa D'Angelo, Kirsty Montgomery, Maurita Gholston
Northwestern Admin: Elizabeth Lach, Director of SPS Development
Questions and Answers about Supporting OLLI
1. How can I give?- Give now through online credit card contribution via the OLLI website.
- Personal check payable to Northwestern/OLLI dropped off at the OLLI office or sent to Northwestern Alumni Relations and Development, 1201 Davis St, Evanston, IL 60208.
- Give via wire transfer or through charitable trusts and estates.
2. What will my gift support?
Your gift supports enhancement of the academic experience, the building of community, and the sustainability of OLLI programming into the future.
3. Does my gift go to Northwestern or OLLI?
Gifts support OLLI programs. All contributions are processed through Northwestern and deposited in a restricted fund for OLLI's exclusive use.
4. Why does my participation matter?
By participating — at any level — you are demonstrating your commitment to and appreciation of OLLI.
5. Does OLLI need the money?
Yes! Membership fees and the investment income from the endowment do not cover all of the program needs.
6. Can I give in honor or in memory of someone?
Yes, gifts recognizing an individual or celebrating a special occasion are welcome.
7. Can I make a planned gift or estate gift to OLLI?
Yes! We welcome deferred and planned gifts, and the Northwestern team can assist in discussing your options. For more information and resources see the We Will Gift Planning website.
8. How will my contribution be recognized?
Your contribution will be recognized in an alphabetical list of OLLI donors unless you wish to remain anonymous. At OLLI, we support the emphasis on a peer culture in all things, including donations. Northwestern University recognizes donations of $1,000 and above for contributions made to any school or program.
9. Who can provide me with more information?
Kirsty Montgomery, Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
847-492-8068 or 312-503-5404 kirsty.montgomery@northwestern.edu