Director's Note: Your Contribution to Eastman House

As we head into the holiday season, I am reminded of the tremendous support that you, our valued members and donors, bring to George Eastman House. During the 65 years since the museum opened its doors, our members have ensured that countless visitors, students, and researchers continue to be inspired and educated by our world-class collections.

Your support allows us to host families with young children on their annual visit to see gingerbread houses and George Eastman’s National Historic Landmark home decorated for the holidays. You help us welcome members and out of- town guests who come to view our extraordinary photography exhibitions and to learn of Rochester’s enduring contributions to current technologies. You enable us to present a range of classic, independent, and international films on the big screen in the beautifully refurbished Dryden Theatre.

For all this, and more, we thank you. But as much as this is a time for thanks, it is also the season for giving. There are many ways that you can make a difference at George Eastman House.

If your membership is due for renewal, I hope you will renew promptly and consider upgrading to a higher level. Gift memberships are an easy way to shop for that hard-to-buy for person—truly a gift that will keep giving all year long.

The purchase of a seat in the Dryden Theatre offers an opportunity to pay lasting tribute to someone special or to show your own passion for the wonderful times you have enjoyed in this grand cinema. We still need to raise more than $100,000 to restore our historic theater’s exterior, and seat sales can make a much-needed contribution.

One powerful way you can provide ongoing support to George Eastman House is by making a provision in your estate plans. Planned gifts come in many forms and sizes, but all will assure that your contribution to the mission of this museum lasts far beyond your lifetime. A bequest is an easy way to make a difference—it does not affect your current cash flow or assets, it is easy to change if your circumstances change, and it may save you estate taxes later. Best of all, you have the satisfaction of helping to secure our institution’s future.

Finally, I ask you to consider making a gift to the museum’s year-end appeal. Earlier this year, George Eastman House was awarded a planning grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support an important Comprehensive Environmental Assessment for all areas of the museum. As part of our commitment, and in compliance with federal requirements, Eastman House must raise $50,000 in matching funds before the end of 2014. Once again, we look to you, our most loyal donors, to help us meet this challenge. Watch your mailbox in the coming weeks to learn more about this essential project.

Please give generously to George Eastman House this holiday season. We thank you for your continued support for this Rochester institution and international treasure.

Best wishes to you and your loved ones for joyous holidays and a healthy and prosperous new year. I look forward to seeing you here soon.

Bruce Barnes, Ph.D.
Ron and Donna Fielding Director
November/December 2014 Bulletin