Matching Challenge Grant Provides Huge Boost to Annual Fund

By Fred Kraus

The Antioch College Annual Fund for 2000-2001 received a wonderful boost from a $125,000 Matching Challenge Grant. The grant was established by three Antioch benefactors: Jeffrey Kasch ’65, James Robinson IV ’86 and Richard W. Colburn ’66. Richard W. Colburn’s share was provided through the Negaunee Foundation.

Here’s how the Matching Challenge Grant worked: for Annual Fund donors who were regular contributors each year, any increase in their level of giving during the 2000-2001 fiscal year was matched from the Grant. And, for all first-time donors to the Annual Fund, and for all donors whose previous gifts to the Annual Fund were more than a few years ago, the entire amount of their gift was matched.

The response to Jeffrey, James and Richard’s Matching Challenge Grant far exceeded expectations in charitable contributions. More than $375,000 in new and increased gifts was raised as a result of the Challenge.

“The overwhelming support of the challenge grant has made a significant impact on the Annual Fund. The final figures confirm that our alumni and friends believe in the very institution that has influenced their lives,” said Joe Neal, Director of the Annual Fund. “I would like to thank all of those people who participated in the challenge. A special thank you to Jeff Kasch, James Robinson and Richard W. Colburn for laying the foundation for this exciting matching grant.”