Did you know that The Dawes Arboretum exists today due to a planned gift in 1929 from our founders, Beman and Bertie Dawes?
You can become a part of our Legacy Program today with your gift. Nearly 1,500 families have become a part of The Arboretum's Legacy Program by labeling a tree or purchasing a bench in honor or memory of a loved one.
Friends of the Trees Fund
$500
Contribute to the general planting and maintenance of trees thorughout The Arboretum grounds. The tributee's name is added to the Memorial & Tributes plaque in the Visitor Center (updated yearly) and acknowledged in the Annual Report.
Trees are not marked, and an individual tree cannot be identified.
Leaves of Legacy
$2500
Dedicate a living tribute where memories and life continue to grow. The tributee's name, date or personalized messaged will be laser-engraved onto a 6"x6" plaque and placed next to an established plant or tree chosen with the help of Arboretum staff. The donor will receive a complimentary one-year family membership.
The plant or tree is guaranteed 10 years from date of installation. All legacy trees are the property of The Dawes Arboretum. The Japanese Garden is currently unavailable for memorial trees and benches.
Seats of Reflection
$3,000 (polywood) or $6,000 (teakwood)
Provide a place for respite and reflection along a trail or in a garden. With assistance from Arboretum staff, benches will be chosen from a catalog of pre-selected areas. Benches will be designated with a 2"x4" plaque with tributee's name and date and the donor will receive a complimentary one-year Buckeye Membership.
Benches are guaranteed 10 years of date from installation and are property of The Dawes Arboretum. The Japanese Garden is currently unavailable for memorial trees and benches.
Estate Planning
There are many kinds of planned gifts which can help donors leave a legacy at The Arboretum while at the same time providing you and your family with tax benefits. Wills, life insurance and retirement plans are just a few of the giving options available. By making your gift known to The Dawes Arboretum, you will be added to our Roots Club, which comes with acknowledgement in our Annual Report and invitations to special events.
To learn more about legacy gifts, please contact us.