MEF supporters continue to build a legacy that ensures the children of Signal Mountain receive the highest quality education for generations to come. MEF Legacy Society donors invest in the future of Signal Mountain schools by making tax-deductible gifts to the MEF Endowment Fund. Donations to the MEF Endowment are invested for long-term benefits, with the earned endowment income used for the Foundation’s mission of strategic investment in educational excellence at Signal Mountain public schools. A growing endowment is one of the signatures of a strong and sustainable nonprofit. MEF is so grateful to generous supporters who have made possible a 500% endowment growth in the last six years.
But what is an endowment?
An endowment typically includes funds given to a nonprofit by donors who have stipulated as a condition of the gift that its principal may not be spent, and who expect that its value will increase over time. Gifts to endowment funds are not used for current needs, but are invested for long-term impact and support. The MEF Endowment is an investment fund designed for long term sustainability of MEF’s mission of supporting excellence in education for Signal schools, beyond what public funding provides. Donations to the MEF Endowment are separate from gifts to the MEF Annual Fund. Annual fund donations are used to meet current needs and annual grants for Signal Mountain’s three public schools, including funding 12 teacher salaries and more not covered by public dollars.
The importance of legacy giving is echoed by Signal Mountain parent Scottie Summerlin. “I was so touched by the donations made to MEF in memory of my late husband, Dan Summerlin. When I updated my legal paperwork, I made sure to include the Mountain Education Foundation in my estate planning. Education is the great equalizer, and I want all students to have access to the exceptional education our twins, Jack and Jake, received.”
MEF announced a monumental achievement at the beginning of 2024: the organization has reached a critical threshold in its Endowment Fund, made possible by the continued support of Legacy Society donors. This milestone allows MEF to draw annual revenue from the endowment to cover all operational costs. As a result, every dollar contributed to the Annual Fund now goes directly to supporting student, teacher and school needs, ensuring that 100% of donations benefit Signal Mountain students.
In addition to the Legacy Society, the MEF Grandparent Society plays a crucial role in supporting Signal schools. Mary Catherine O’Kelley, a passionate supporter and one of the founders of this society, expresses the joy of witnessing her granddaughters thrive within the school system. “The teachers and administrators are dedicated and caring; the addition of parent and grandparent involvement takes it to another level,” O’Kelley said. “Being part of the MEF Grandparent Society and seeing the difference our contributions make is a gift I can give to my granddaughters and to all the children on the mountain.”
Supporting Signal Mountain’s children is easy through the Grandparent Society! Grandparents can become members with a donation of any amount, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing local education. For those interested in making an even greater impact, a recurring donation of $50/month Sponsors a Student, providing vital resources and opportunities. All contributions are appreciated, and there are additional options for giving, such as gifts of stock, life insurance, and retirement assets that can maximize tax savings.
“We, as grandparents, feel there is no better investment than the education of children,” shared Doug and Charlotte Witry. “The students of Signal Mountain schools have so many added opportunities thanks to the financial support provided by MEF—from purchasing equipment to funding salaries for art teachers, STEM teachers, computer lab instructors, and reading and math interventionists. Truly, none of these positions would exist without MEF.”
Both the Legacy Society and the Grandparent Society exemplify how committed individuals can ensure a lasting legacy for future generations. For more information about contributing to MEF or to discuss individual legacy giving options, donors can visit MEFtoday.org or contact MEF Executive Director Hilarie Robison at 423/517-0772.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate that through collaboration and commitment, the Signal Mountain community is dedicated to securing an exceptional educational experience for all children.
