Growers' Program -old

We take pride in persevering your traditions. That is why we created The Festival Foundation Grower’s Program, to weave the fabric of giving back into another tradition. “Whether you can donate $5 a monthly or $500 a month, this program is meant for you. It allows you to give at whatever level you feel comfortable at,” said Kat Paye, Executive Director. The Festival Foundation wants to remind you that we appreciate and recognize all giving so, donations accumulate towards donor levels in the Founder’s Circle.

In addition to being able to donate monthly, donors can also choose where their money is allocated; the General fund, the President’s fund and the Scholarship fund. “This program really aims at being inclusive of all of our volunteers and stakeholders. We are so thankful for their generosity,” exclaimed Bekah Lynch, Festival Foundation President.

General Fund

The General Fund assists with covering the day to day business of The Festival Foundation. There are no restrictions for the funds that are donated for this account. Funds donated here may be used for general operating expenses, donations to community share groups, additions to the rainy day fund and more. This is the greatest need.

President’s Fund

The President's Fund targets the goal of providing a bricks and mortar fund for The Festival Foundation to purchase and maintain a permanent home.

Scholarship Fund

The Festival Foundation gives out over $20,000 a year in scholarships. Donating to the scholarship programs helps ensure educational giving for years to come. Currently, The Festival Foundation Scholarship Programs include the Queens Program, the Commemorative Print Program, the Ali Ward Memorial Scholarship through the National Cherry Festival Internship Program, and the Michigan Youth Cycling Scholarships.

Founder’s Circle

Originally developed in 2013, eleven members of the Founder’s Circle committed to three years of annual giving to The Festival Foundation. Funds raised were to be used in concert with the mission of the Festival Foundation and that still holds true today. Any person that donates a lifetime minimum of $500 will earn a place in the Founder’s Circle. Donations can be made through the Monthly Festival Foundation Growers Program or they can be one time donations. Currently, The Festival Foundation is raising funds for general needs, scholarships and a bricks and mortar campaign to hopefully lead the Foundation to a permanent location in five to ten years. Following is a list of levels and benefits for the Founder Circle. All donations initiated July 1 2020 to July 1 2021 will earn a charter member designation.

Giving Levels

All levels receive the following

• Name on website under the appropriate level
• Donor Decal
• Ability to Make Gifts in Honor of or In Memory Of

Orchard

Lifetime Giving $500-$999

• Specialized Communication Twice a year Level Lapel Pin
• Invitation to a special event
• Recognition in Annual Community Report

Clover

Lifetime Giving $1,000 to $2,499

• All Items listed previously
• Level Lapel Pin

Trailblazer

Lifetime Giving $2,500 to $4,999

• All Items listed previously
• Level Lapel Pin

Firework

Lifetime Giving $5,000 to $9,999

• All those listed previously
• A Level Lapel Pin
• Dinner with Executive Director & Queen (off festival)

Montmorency

Lifetime Giving $10,000+

• All those listed previously
• A Level Lapel Pin
• Lunch with Executive Director & Queen during Festival
• Personal Tour of the National Cherry Festival