In 2022, we celebrated our 50th Anniversary. We were founded in 1972 by concerned residents of Little Compton, the initiator of land protection efforts in the town, and the first private, non-profit community land trust in Rhode Island. Since then, we have protected nearly 500 acres for the lasting benefit of the community.
To us, Little Compton is a very special place. We share a history deeply linked to the landscape, appreciated by multiple generations of families who have made Little Compton their year-round or summer home. However, this special place is fragile, prone to the creep of suburbanization, which would forever change the unique, rural character of Little Compton.
As such, those who love this place are called to be its stewards. We are responding to this challenge with a two-phase strategy:
A Call to Stewardship
- Phase 1 raised over $1,ooo,ooo. Earnings from these reserves will support operations that include current land protection projects, annual stewardship responsibilities for conserved properties, and educational programming for the community.
Now we start:
- Phase 2 which will allow us to focus more of our fundraising on future land protection projects, collaborating with other local organizations, as needed, in order to safeguard with easements or acquire properties outright that preserve what we value about this unique community.
Fundraising Approach
We continue to accept donations for Phase 1. Gifts of any size are welcome and appreciated.
As one option for giving, we have established a “Family Stewardship Circle” to encourage generational giving as part of the Campaign. With a commitment of $10,000 or more, payable over a period of up to five years, you can become a Member of the Circle. We hope that joining this group will provide your family with:
A chance to start or continue a family discussion regarding the importance of conserving land and protecting some of the precious remaining undeveloped land in Little Compton for all residents and for the lasting benefit of generations to come.- A way to introduce younger generations to the important work performed by Sakonnet Preservation volunteers, and to develop an appreciation for the value their parents and grandparents place on that work.
- An opportunity to make a contribution as a memorial to a deceased family member(s) or in honor of a living member(s).
You can become a Member of the Family Stewardship Circle by:
- Making a one-time family contribution of $10,000 or more;
- Making a family pledge of $10,000 or more to be paid over a period of up to five years; or
- Including Sakonnet Preservation as a beneficiary in your estate plans by designating $10,000 or more to the Family Stewardship Circle.
Any and all-sized contributions can be made in the form of checks, payable to Sakonnet Preservation Association, or with appreciated stock. To make a gift of appreciated stock please contact Joy Elvin at 401-635-8800 or jelvin@sakonnetpreservation.org. If you are interested in joining the Family Stewardship Circle or in making a multi-year gift of any size, please download and complete this Pledge Form and either email it or mail a hard copy to us at P.O. Box 945, Little Compton, Rhode Island 02837.
