Gifts & Bequests

Annual Giving

Contributions through the Annual Giving program support the general operation of Historic Odessa and its annual $500,000 budget. Approximately 72% of the annual budget arises through voluntary membership and gifts. With annual support, we are able to care for the historic properties and collection objects, create inspirational school programs, provide opportunities for thousands to learn about life in Delaware as it once was, mount fascinating exhibitions and host popular events such as the Annual Holiday Party and the Annual Odessa Brew Fest. We invite you to make an annual contribution to the best of your ability and support this cultural resource.  

Planned Giving

Individuals that have provided for Historic Odessa via their estate are welcomed into the H. Rodney Sharp Society. Society members are amongst the most generous contributors to the Foundation. Members have the choice of remaining anonymous (unpublished) or public (published in recognition materials). At no time is any information beyond the member name listed publicly. Those who choose to be publicly recognized create an example for others to follow with their own philanthropic intent.

Bequests 

We recommend that gifts through wills be expressed as a percentage of your overall estate rather than a fixed dollar amount. When naming the Foundation in your will, please use our legal name: The Historic Odessa Foundation (Odessa, DE). If you are willing to share this information with Historic Odessa staff, please call (302) 478-4119 for a confidential conversation.  

Life Insurance, Charitable Gift Annuities, Charitable Trusts

Please contact Debbie Buckson, Executive Director of the Historic Odessa Foundation for a confidential discussion: (302) 478-4119 or debbie.buckson@historicodessa.org

Special Giving

Make a gift to the Historic Odessa Foundation in honor of or in memory of a friend, a beloved teacher, or simply because you recognize the value of preserving the very essence of early America. Call Jennifer Cabell at 302-378-4119 for more information.