Teatown Lake Reservation / Get Involved

The Gerard and Marjorie Swope
Planned Giving Society

The Gerard and Marjorie Swope Planned Giving Society is an honorary association of friends whose planned gifts will someday go to Teatown Lake Reservation. Named for Gerard and Marjorie Swope who, with their family, gave the gift of 190 acres in 1963 that established Teatown. Gerard Swope, Jr. the moving spirit behind Teatown, devoted himself to the reservation and helped launch its mission as an educational center. He believed strongly that Teatown’s success depended on the involvement of the community. Moreover, he felt that the creation of a sustainable endowment was essential for Teatown’s growth and future. Gerard’s wife Marjorie inspired the many volunteers who with loving care nurtured and helped grow Teatown’s gem – Wildflower Island. The Gerard and Marjorie Swope Planned Giving Society pays tribute to those who have ensured the future of Teatown Lake Reservation – as demonstrated by the Swope’s, through their thoughtful, planned generosity.

Forms of planned giving may include a bequest in the form of gifts of cash, personal property or other assets provided in your will or personal estate plan or gifts of life insurance policies, or IRAs. Planned giving also may include current planned gifts such as a charitable remainder trusts.

Careful gift planning offers each individual the opportunity to make an endowed gift that will continue to help Teatown for generations to come. Regardless of the method or the gift amount, we are deeply grateful to every member of the Gerard and Marjorie Swope Planned Giving Society , and especially appreciative of his or her thoughtful commitment to the future financial well-being of Teatown.

Membership in the Gerard and Marjorie Swope Planned Giving Society also offers important benefits to you. The most satisfying reason to join is knowing that your planned gift will have a part in ensuring that Teatown's programs and properties remain vital and diverse for future generations. Other benefits include:

Invitations to interesting and exclusive membership events
A special memento designed exclusively for the Gerard and Marjorie Swope Planned Giving Society
Interesting and updated information throughout the year about the latest philanthropic endeavors from our most dedicated friends and supporters
Acknowledgement in each year's annual report and publications (unless anonymity is requested)
Affords you the opportunity to fulfill both your financial and charitable goals

Please let us know if you have already included or intend to include Teatown Lake Reservation in your plans, or if you are considering the idea of providing for Teatown in your estate.

For further information about making a planned gift to Teatown, please contact Anne Wakelee Bishop at (914) 762-2192 ext. 113 or consult with a financial advisor or estate planner to create a planned gift that meets your needs.