The Everetts
The Highly Leveraged Giving of Edith and Henry

Edith and Henry Everett target their giving much like investment bankers target their investing. They have made some powerful gifts that are designed to keep giving after the money is spent.

A prime example of a donation investment is the Everett Summer Fellowship Program, which creates summer internships for college students to work at nonprofit organizations. Some of the organizations that serve as placement are:

• Center on Budget and Policy Priorities in Washington, D.C.
• Child Welfare League of America in Washington, D.C.
• Shorebank Corporation in Chicago
• Josephson Institute of Ethics in Marina Del Ray California
• Tobacco Products Liability Projects in Boston

The internships carry a cost-of-living stipend that has a triple impact. First, it gives students a meaningful learning experience. Second, it generates a spirit of public service among the recipients. Third, it guarantees the flow of strong candidates for summer positions to the under-funded nonprofits. This kind of thoughtful and well-managed program exemplifies the power of giving.

Other examples of gifts from the Everetts that show their commitment to high quality contributions include the establishment of the Everetts’ Children Adventure Garden New York Botanical Gardens and a $1 million pledge toward the endowment campaign to support Teach for America. This organization, described in the Volunteer section of this site, has had a remarkable impact on education in areas of poverty.