The generous support KiMe has received over the last 10 years has allowed us to fund research focused on finding a cure for Parkinson’s. We are now faced with our biggest challenge, raising money during the pandemic.
At some point, we may be able to return to the fundraising events of the past. But, with a commitment to be socially responsible and a desire to continue to raise money that allows us to award research grants, we must explore other ways to obtain donations. If you would like to support our mission to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are still ways to give.
Five ways you can donate to KiMe:
# 1 One Time Donations
Donations of any amount are always appreciated. They can be mailed or made on-line.
Mail:
East Tennessee Foundation
c/o KiMe Fund
520 W. Summit Hill Dr, Suite 1101
Knoxville, TN 37902
or online.
# 2 Reoccurring Donations
This is an area that we hope will experience more growth in the coming months. Any amount is appreciated, but here is an example of the impact. If just one person set up a reoccurring donation of $50 per month, they would generate $600 annually or $3,000 over five years. If we could add one person per quarter (only 4 per year) to do the same, at the end of 60 months we would have 20 people donating collectively $12,000 annually. Hopefully, we could recruit and maintain a level of participation.
# 3 Memorial Contributions
Many families wish to create a lasting legacy in tribute to a loved one by requesting donations in lieu of flowers. You can do this via mail or online.
# 4 Estate Bequest
This is typically a specific item of property (a painting, a car, etc.) that is donated to East Tennessee Foundation, KiMe Fund. Value is assessed and a letter confirming tax-deductible amount is sent to the donor. The item is subsequently auctioned or sold. The proceeds are used to fund research grants.
To establish bequest, contact:
Ms. Tamara Boyer, General Counsel, Vice President for Advancement
East Tennessee Foundation
520 W. Summit Hill Dr, Suite 1101
Knoxville, TN 37902
# 5 Auction Items
With the social gathering limitations currently associated with the pandemic, the importance of raising funds through our silent and live auctions has taken a greater level of importance. We would need to work out the details, but it is likely we will have virtual auctions that will remain open for a defined period of time, and hopefully allow for broader participation.
Over the years, we have received a wide variety of items, including a Harley Davidson motorcycle, cigar humidors, jewelry, golf packages (round of golf, BMW golf bags, lessons from a golf pro, golf balls), personal care (massages, nails, spa, hair), destination packages (loaner vehicle for the weekend, nights at a hotel, vacation condos/homes), gift cards (restaurants), auto detailing, life experiences (BMW driving experience, master distiller for a day, cruise), tickets to events (Chicago Cubs, college games, symphony, opera, live theater), and autographed sports memorabilia (basketballs signed by Pat Summit, football jersey signed by Gayle Sayers).
If you have questions or you want to provide auction item(s), please send an e-mail with “Auction Item Donation” in the Subject line, provide a description and send to:
A donation form will be provided as a record of your donation, but not as substantiation of the value.
The more donations, the better and the faster we can find a cure. Our belief is… “It’s not a matter of if. It’s a matter of when.”
