Longbranch Foundation launches to help community

Residents of the Key Peninsula recently formed The Longbranch Foundation, a tax-exempt organization whose purpose is to raise funds for the preservation of historic structures, maintenance of the grounds of The Longbranch Improvement Club for public recreational use, and preservation of the environment of Filucy Bay.

The foundation will also support scholarship programs and public school activities, and support other community service organizations and activities.

The foundation is affiliated with The Longbranch Improvement Club (LIC), which was formed in 1921 for the betterment of the community. 

The new foundation will focus on funding for recognized charitable activities, which will allow donors full tax deductibility for donations to the Foundation of funds, goods, and services.

The officers of the new Foundation are Clark Van Bogart (president), Francie Carr (vice president), Judy Riggs (secretary), and Jim Hettinger (treasurer).

According to Van Bogart, the first planned activity for the foundation will be a garage and yard sale to be held at the LIC clubhouse from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 23. 

Items may be donated to the foundation for sale to the public, and donors will be provided a receipt to support a charitable contribution tax deduction. 

In addition, vendors can rent indoor or outdoor booths to sell their own merchandise.  A silent auction will be conducted, and food and beverages will be available, Van Bogart said.

The LIC is located at 4312 Key Peninsula Highway South.  

For information, contact Clark Van Bogart at (253) 549-9129 or cvb@vanbogart.com.