Build a Foundation of Legacies
Grow the Valley’s permanent endowment and leave a legacy that lasts for generations.
The Valley’s Living Legacy — and Its Strongest Safety Net
Since 2004, the Valley Community Foundation (VCF) has stood as a trusted partner and steward of local generosity. Created by and for the people of the Valley, VCF manages more than 275 charitable funds and scholarships and distributes more than $2 million in grants each year to support area nonprofits, strengthen neighborhoods, and preserve the spirit of Valleyness — that neighborly, kind, and caring spirit ingrained in Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton that defines our community.
But while our Foundation is strong, our flexibility is limited. Of all the dollars VCF awards each year, only a small fraction come from VCF’s discretionary permanent endowment funds — the dollars that allow us to respond quickly when new challenges arise or opportunities emerge.
25 for the Next 25 is a multi-year endowment campaign focused on growing membership in the Gates Society, VCF’s planned giving community. The goal is to double Gates Society membership to 100 or more members by 2029, VCF’s 25th Anniversary. Through planned gifts and endowment commitments, Gates Society members help strengthen VCF’s three discretionary permanent endowment funds: the Valley Foundation Fund, the Valley Community Fund, and the Valley First Responders Fund.
These funds ensure that VCF can continue meeting the Valley’s greatest needs — not just today, but for generations to come. Together, through foresight and generosity, we can keep the Valley’s story going strong, caring, and resilient.
Your Gift. Your Legacy. The Valley’s Future. It’s Easy to Give.
Planned gifts help ensure a lasting impact on your community — without affecting your finances in your lifetime. These gifts can be as
unique as your own story. You can leave a gift to 25 for the Next 25 endowment initiative or contribute to an existing VCF fund through:
- A bequest in your will
- Naming VCF as a beneficiary (or part beneficiary) of an IRA, retirement plan or life insurance policy
- Gifting stocks, bonds, or mutual funds
- Donating real estate or personal property, or
- Giving through a charitable trust or annuity
Every legacy gift becomes part of a permanent fund that continues giving forever — supporting education, health, the arts, basic needs, and more, based on your wishes or the greatest community need.
Join the Gates Society and Build Something That Lasts
The Gates Society is named in honor of Ross and Frank Gates, Derby brothers who left an endowment in 1938 to benefit the Valley and causes they were passionate about. By notifying us of your intent to leave a legacy gift, you become a member of this special circle of forward-thinking donors — like the Gates brothers — who care deeply about the future of the Valley.
As a member, you will:
- Be recognized (or remain anonymous, if you prefer)
- Receive invitations to special donor gatherings
- Inspire others through your generosity, and
- Ensure your Valley legacy is remembered.
All it takes is a commitment — no minimum amount — to include VCF in your estate plans. We’re happy to work with you and your advisor to find the best way to fulfill your vision.
Gates Society Members Preserve Valleyness for Generations
