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FAQ
- Why ask members for donations when AGU makes millions from publications and meetings?
- What is a “designated donation”?
- What is the difference between endowment gifts and other programmatic gifts?
- Why doesn't AGU increase dues or simply seek corporate contributions and foundation grants?
- Will a small gift make a difference?
- Who makes policy affecting endowment funds?
Why ask members for donations when AGU makes millions from publications and meetings?
Our scientific society and society-at-large face new challenges. They range from opening up access to scientific publications to the potential impact of international terrorism on attendance at scientific meetings around the world, and a volatile economy.
These challenges and their implications for AGU's mission require strengthening the Union's financial resources.
TopWhat is a “designated donation”?
A designated donation is a gift you earmark for a specific purpose. To learn more about specific AGU funds, their purposes and accomplishments, see fund descriptions.
What is the difference between endowment gifts and other programmatic gifts?
Contributions to Section, Committee, and other designated funds are immediately available and can be fully expended. Endowment gifts, however, focus on the future. These donations are invested, and their value multiplies dramatically over time. The principal remains intact. A portion of the investment income from the donation is available annually for distribution. For example, a $10,000 endowment initially yields $400 for disbursement. To learn more about specific AGU funds, their purposes and accomplishments, visit see fund descriptions.
Why doesn't AGU increase dues or simply seek corporate contributions and foundation grants?
Dues must remain modest so that Earth and space scientists worldwide can join AGU. It will take gifts and grants from all sectors of society to maintain Union momentum. Members' donations-a mix of many modest and a few major gifts-will help leverage support from other sources.
Will a modest gift make a difference?
Every gift has an impact. A number of gifts—ranging from $25 to $1,000 and totaling $32,375—formed the nucleus of the Berkner Fund in the early 1970s. Today, there is $805,000 in this fund, largely due to well-managed investments. So modest gifts make a difference.
Who makes policy affecting endowment funds?
AGU's Council, acting on the recommendation of finance and program committees, sets endowment fund disbursement policies. At present, 4% of the annual investment income from each of these funds is distributed.