Bethel Historical launches campaign

BETHEL — For nearly a half-century, members and friends of the Bethel Historical Society have recognized the importance of the organization’s work of collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history of western Maine and the White Mountain region through their financial support of the “Annual Fund.”

Representing just over 30% of the Society’s yearly income, the Annual Fund allows the small staff and many dedicated volunteers to maintain daily operations and to offer programs and exhibits that make the Bethel region's history mea­ningful, accessible, and enjoyable for thousands of adults and school-age children.

To make this year’s Annual Fund donations go even further, a special “Board Challenge” is being offered. According to Randall Bennett, executive director of the Bethel Historical Society, “The Society’s Board of Trustees, made up of 15 individuals who share a passion for local and regional history, have stepped up to the plate to match - dollar-for-dollar - new and increased Annual Fund donations up to a total of $5,000.”

That means if someone was not able to give last year, the Historical Society will benefit twice from a new donation this year. “I hope members and friends will agree with me that this Board Challenge represents a significant opportunity to support and sustain the Society’s important role as the keeper of Bethel’s memories,” Bennett stated.

Donations to the Bethel Historical Society’s Annual Fund may be mailed to the Society at P.O. Box 12, Bethel 04217. Such gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Checks, stock transfers or credit card payments should be dated no later than December 31 to be counted toward this year’s campaign. (To make a donation in a form other than cash, please call the Society at 800-824-2910 or e-mail BHS at info@bethelhistorical.org.)