Community Trust Foundation

Friends of the Washington Street Library Launch Endowment Fund

A new fund at the Community Trust Foundation (CTF) is supporting the meaningful work of the Friends of the Washington Street Library (FWSL).

“Developing this supplemental fund is important for making our library welcoming and useful to the community,” said Richard Kirsch,  FWSL president. “We realize that we need to look to the future, and this is an important step to ensure that we have the funds to continue to support the Washington Street Library.”

The FWSL Board is made up of local volunteers focused on promoting the use and enjoyment of the library and supporting programming activities or needs that are outside the normal operations of the branch.

“The restoration of the Children’s Room in memory of Barbara Leasure is a perfect example,” explained Kirsch. “By enhancing the space with a new entrance and decorations, we have created a more inviting environment that encourages children to explore and learn. We have seen how the library can serve as a safe space to learn and grow in our community.”

The Friends of the Washington Street Library Endowment will provide long-term annual grantmaking for library enhancements. This has become increasingly important with the recent funding constraints threatening closure of the branch. The fund is comprised of contributions from the membership, fundraising, and generous memoriam gifts received since the group’s inception in 2016. A fundraiser is planned in partnership with Acting Out For Good who have chosen FWSL as the recipient for proceeds from their upcoming production of “Seussical.” The library will also feature materials by and about Dr. Seuss this fall.

CTF makes it easy for charitable organizations to focus on their mission without the fiduciary responsibility associated with building an endowment by providing donor acknowledgment, fund management, and accredited professional oversight. Gifts to the fund are tax-deductible, earmarked for the donor’s chosen fund, and provide support for meaningful impact on the community.

Donations to the Friends of the Washington Street Library Fund at CTF can be made online here, or by direct mail to 112 Baltimore Street, Cumberland, MD 21502. Stock or IRA gifts can be directed through an investment advisor.

Community Trust Foundation is your local community foundation created with gifts from generous people committed to local causes. Through the support of its donors, the Foundation grants to local nonprofits working to build a stronger community in the areas of Arts & Historical Preservation, Education & Youth Leadership, Health, Wellness & Recreation, and Vibrant Communities & Thriving Environment. Connecting philanthropy for community good in Allegany, Garrett, and Mineral Counties.