With One Fundraising Milestone Down, Leigh Legacy Fund Sets Sights on the Next

credit: Wikipedia

The small town of Leigh, Neb., is getting a big boost in its coffers thanks to a group of former residents and their families.

Last year, 14 families and individuals (all Leigh High School alumni who've moved away but still hold the community dear) issued a challenge: If they could raise $500,000 for the Leigh Legacy Fund, which is affiliated with the Nebraska Community Foundation, the group would be awarded $250,000 in additional funds for a $750,000 boost to the unrestricted endowment, per a release.

Current and former residents and members of the fund's advisory committee answered the call, raising $585,000 of the $500,000 goal in 16 months, per the Leigh Sentinel.

"Obviously many people around and in the Leigh community saw the benefit in our challenge and made an investment in their hometown that will be felt for many years to come," says Greg Vasek, honorary NCF board member and convener of the Distinguished Alumni Challenge.

"I truly believe that this is only the start for this group, and with guidance this endowment fund will continue to grow and help Leigh to prosper forever."

So far, the Leigh Legacy Fund has received 132 campaign donations from 14 states.

Every year, the fund will be able to grant $45,000 back to the community.

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