What is FORWARD Endowment?
While not an active club or organization, the FORWARD (Friends Of Resources, Wildlife And Recreational Development) Endowment was created by Manitowoc Unit of Fish and Game as a tool to help meet the ongoing needs of sporting men and women in the community. Started with a $50,000 estate gift, the charitable trust has grown to over $850,000. Manitowoc County Fish & Game Protective Association recently assigned 15% of their banquet proceeds to the trust, a practice they have done for many years, making them a major supporter of the future.
The intent of the founders was to provide a financial resource to help fund projects in Manitowoc County that relate to hunting, fishing, conservation and related education. We understand that alternative funding sources for these projects are becoming more challenging and this fund provides an important resource to protect what has been built in Manitowoc County over the past 100 years. We also understand the importance of educating youth to create the next generation of caretakers for the resources of the area. Funding education and youth programs is an important part of the trust.
The FORWARD Endowment is a 501(c)(3) and all donations are tax deductible. In 2024, the trust format has been changed to a Unitrust, giving more flexibility in funding important projects for the future. Each September the FORWARD Endowment solicits requests for grants from the fund, closing at the end of December. Awards are given in March of the following year and are managed by Associated Trust. To date the trust has awarded over $180,000 in community grants for projects all across the area. It will continue to be a major resource for the quality of life in Manitowoc County.
Many of the clubs in Manitowoc County have supported the FORWARD Endowment. Many individuals and businesses have also provided support through direct gifts and even estate planning and gifts. A donation to the endowment has become a popular alternative to flowers when club members and sporting enthusiasts pass away. This is a wonderful recognition of their lives as these gifts will always be there and continue to give to the community for years to come.
