Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Thank you for running the article last week regarding the Mathews Schools Endowment Fund. I would like to offer some additional information regarding the Fund and solicit help from your readers.

This Endowment Fund has now been established, the ground rules for allocating distributions are in place, and we even have some initial donations. The next step is to build the Fund so that it will grow and provide income simultaneously. When state and federal funding are reduced, there are few alternative sources of income for schools in rural areas. This is where an endowment fund can make a positive impact now and for years in the future. It will truly be the gift that keeps giving to benefit Mathews’ students in perpetuity.

Most of us received our education because prior generations made sacrifices. Now, we all have the opportunity to show our appreciation in the form of contributions to an endowment fund. Yes, it’s kind of a "pay back," but more important, are the countless, long-term possibilities for improving our schools and our community.

As you may know, the Mathews Community Foundation is our Foundation. It is not a private foundation funded by the estate of individuals. It is a foundation built by large and small contributions from many individuals. Please consider making a donation to support our schools.

Checks may be sent to the Mathews Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1037, Mathews, Va. 23109. Please note "Mathews School Endowment" on the memo line. If you have questions, please direct them to me at 725-5827 or phillips.watermark@gmail.com/.

Janice Phillips

New Point, Va.