Memorials, Tributes and Legacy Gifts

The Essex Land Trust often receives gifts and donations in memory of individuals no longer with us or to honor those dedicated to our mission. Commemorating loved ones through thoughtful contributions offers a meaningful way to celebrate their lives and values. These gestures not only support causes dear to their hearts but also create enduring legacies that touch the lives of others. Whether you choose to donate in someone’s memory, leave a gift in your will or IRA, or make a special tribute, your act of giving becomes a powerful expression of remembrance. Tributes and Legacy Gifts are listed in the land trust’s annual report sent out to all members and supporters and a copy is also available for downloading from our website. The Essex Land Trust is a Connecticut non-profit corporation; all donations are tax exempt under IRS code §501c(3), Tax id 06-6104076.

Gifts in Memory or  in Honor of an Individual

Any donation may be made in memory or in honor of someone you wish to commemorate. These gifts can be submitted to the land trust via regular mail or by using the convenient Donate link provided HERE.

Memorial Tributes

The land trust has established the Sharon D. Clark Memorial Garden in its Falls River Park to honor individuals in whose name a memorial donation of $5,000 or more has been made. A short path leads to benches for contemplation and reflection, overlooking the Mill Pond. At the center of the garden is a large boulder on which the names of those being commemorated are inscribed on a bronze plaque. Contact us at info@essexlandtrust.org for information about group tributes or other questions you may have.

Memorial Garden Tributes

Harriet Cheney Downing

Ann Coulton Nussbaum

Anne T. Comstock

Richard Tredwell

Legacy Gifts

The Falls River Society was established to honor those who have chosen to support the Essex Land Trust’s efforts with a planned gift. Individuals become members once we have received notification of their gift on an enrollment form. Members are listed on our annual list of members and supporters unless they request to remain anonymous. Including the Essex Land Trust in a will is a meaningful way to invest in the future of our community. Planned giving answers the questions, “How can I help tomorrow?” and “What kinds of values would I like to be remembered for?” Make a planned gift — of any size — to join the Falls River Society. Many legacy gifts offer valuable tax benefits. Each represents a flexible giving opportunity to match your gift to your goals and values. Make the right choice for you. A legacy gift of $5,000 or more will also qualify as a Memorial Tribute. Some options include:

• A bequest from your will or trust

• An IRA or insurance beneficiary

• A life income arrangement such as a charitable gift annuity or trust

• Real estate

To make any legacy gift, it is important to consult with your financial advisor and attorney. If interested or if you or your advisors have any questions, CONTACT US.  Click HERE to download the Falls River Society brochure and enrollment form.

Falls River Society Members

Barbara Sarrantonio

Fred Szufnarowski

Richard Tredwell

Estelle Ives Zahn