Investing in Our Future: The Power of Legacy Funds at LEAF 742
Every great community is built on a foundation of care, commitment, and investment in the future. In District 742, the Local Education & Activities Foundation (LEAF) plays a pivotal role in supporting the academic, artistic, and athletic programs that shape students’ lives. One of the most impactful ways to make a lasting difference is through the creation of a Legacy Fund.
What Is a Legacy Fund?
A Legacy Fund is a permanent endowment — a fund established with a one-time gift or series of contributions that is invested to generate annual income. This income is then used to support a specific area of interest within District 742, such as music education, athletics, technology access, student mental health, or classroom innovation.
Unlike one-time donations that are spent immediately, Legacy Funds are designed to last forever. The principal remains untouched, while 5% of the investment earnings are distributed each year to support students and programs in the donor’s chosen area.
In short, a Legacy Fund is a way to keep giving—year after year, generation after generation.
Why Legacy Funds Matter to District 742
Legacy Funds provide stability and sustainability. As school budgets tighten and needs grow, these funds help ensure that important programs don’t disappear due to a lack of resources. Whether it’s ensuring students have instruments to play, funding robotics programs, or supporting equity initiatives, Legacy Funds give teachers and students the tools to succeed.
They also give donors the opportunity to leave a meaningful, personal legacy — a chance to connect their name, family, or business to something that positively impacts students well into the future.
Types of Legacy Funds at LEAF
LEAF currently manages several types of Legacy Funds, including:
- Activity-specific funds (e.g., for band, choir, or a specific sport)
- Scholarship funds to support post-secondary education
- Equity and access funds to reduce barriers for underrepresented students
- Memorial or honorary funds to celebrate someone’s life and passion
Each Legacy Fund is unique and reflects the donor’s values and vision for education.
How to Start a Legacy Fund
Starting a Legacy Fund with LEAF 742 is a straightforward and rewarding process. Here’s how it works:
- Determine Your Focus
Decide which area of District 742 you’d like to support. This could be tied to your personal experiences, your family’s passion, or a program or school that had a big impact on you. - Choose a Fund Name
Many donors name their fund in honor of a loved one, a former teacher, or their family. - Initial Gift
The donation amount needed to start a Legacy Fund at LEAF 742 is $25,000. This can be paid in full, or a plan can be made to make regular payments towards the Fund as long as the $25,000 mark is reached in 5 years. - Work With LEAF
The LEAF team helps you set up the fund, define its purpose, and manage investments following nonprofit best practices and in partnership with Central MN Community Foundation which holds our Endowments. - Start the Legacy
Once the fund is established, it begins generating annual support for the designated program—forever.
Why Now Is the Time
If you’re passionate about education, equity, and the future of our children, there’s no better time to act. A Legacy Fund is more than a donation—it’s a lifelong investment in opportunity. It’s your chance to leave a mark on District 742 that students will feel long after the school bells have stopped ringing.
Whether you’re an alumnus, a parent, a business leader, or a community member who believes in the power of public education, LEAF’s Legacy Funds offer a way to give back with lasting impact.
Interested in starting a Legacy Fund?
Contact the LEAF Foundation at info@leaf.org or (320) 281-6581 for a personal consultation with our Executive Director. Your legacy can start today—with a gift that gives forever.