Giving a home to fund a scholarship at Union College is more than just a generous act. It’s a powerful way to create a lasting impact. I believe donating real estate is not only a smart philanthropic move but also a meaningful way to support education and invest in the future of local students. Whether you’re an alum, a community member, or someone who simply values learning, giving a home can turn personal property into opportunity. Let me walk you through how this process works, why it matters, and how your gift can make higher education more accessible for the next generation.
Real Example That Inspires Action
Robert McFarland lived in Schenectady for decades. Although not an alum, he had a deep connection to Union College. He ran on the track, attended lectures and concerts, and often walked through the gardens. When he moved, he chose to give his home to the college. Union sold the house and used the funds to create a scholarship for local students. McFarland said it simply felt like the right thing to do. His gift turned into direct support for young people in his community. His story proves that you don’t have to be an alum to make a real difference.
Share a simplified, human-centred version of Robert McFarland’s story:
- A longtime Schenectady resident
- Not an alum, but deeply connected to the Union
- Donated his home
- The college sold the house to create a scholarship for local students
- Highlight the personal motivation and impact it felt like the right thing to do.
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How It Works – The Process Made Simple
The process of giving a home to Union College is straightforward. First, reach out to the College’s development or advancement office. They will walk you through the steps and assess the property. If the donation is accepted, Union handles the sale of the home. The money from the sale is then used to establish a scholarship fund, often named in your honour or directed to a cause you care about. Union’s team ensures the transition is smooth and transparent, so you feel confident every step of the way. It’s a simple path to making a powerful and lasting impact.
Outline the basic steps:
- You contact Union College’s development office
- The College evaluates the property
- If accepted, they manage the sale
- Proceeds go directly to a scholarship fund
- Emphasize how easy Union makes the process for donors
Who Benefits and Why It Matters
When you donate your home to Union College for scholarships, you open doors for students, especially from Schenectady, who may not have the financial means to attend. These scholarships help local talent access a world-class education without the heavy burden of debt. Your gift directly supports hard-working students who want to build brighter futures. Beyond individuals, the entire community benefits from educated, motivated young people who stay connected to the region. These students become leaders, professionals, and contributors. Giving a home isn’t just a donation it’s an investment in people and in the future of Schenectady and the Capital Region.
Explain the real impact on Schenectady students:
- More access to a high-quality education
- Encouragement for local talent to stay and thrive
- Share how this strengthens both the College and the community
Why This Kind of Giving Matters
Donating real estate to support scholarships at Union College offers real and lasting value. It gives you the chance to turn a property into a purpose. You receive tax benefits, simplify your estate, and gain the peace of mind of doing something meaningful. More importantly, your home becomes a stepping stone for future students. Many donors find that giving in this way helps them leave a personal legacy that reflects their values. It’s not about wealth it’s about impact. When you give a home, you give the chance for education, growth, and opportunity that lasts far beyond your lifetime.
Give donors a reason to act:
- Tax advantages
- Legacy-building
- Direct, lasting impact
- Speak to both emotional and practical motivations
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How to Get Started
Starting is easy. Simply contact Union College’s Office of College Relations or visit their planned giving page. Their staff will guide you through the process and answer any questions. They’ll help you understand how your gift will be used, the paperwork involved, and what to expect at each step. You can even specify how you want the scholarship to be used or named. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or looking to create lasting change, Union makes it simple. Taking that first step could turn your home into a legacy that supports students for generations to come.
Provide a direct call to action:
- Visit Union College’s planned giving page
- Include the updated, working link: https://www.union.edu/planned-giving
- Suggest contacting the College’s Office of College Relations for one-on-one help
A Last Push Toward Giving
Giving a home to fund a scholarship at Union College is a unique way to create something meaningful out of something familiar. Your home has served you well now let it serve others. Just like Robert McFarland’s story, your gift can make education possible for students who need a little help to reach their goals. It’s an act of generosity that has ripple effects through families and communities. Whether or not you have a personal connection to Union, you can still be part of its mission. Give with purpose. Give with impact. Turn your home into a future for someone else.
- Reinforce how giving a home is a meaningful and lasting way to support education
- Encourage readers to consider how they can leave a mark just like McFarland did
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Donating a home to Union College to fund a scholarship is a meaningful way to turn the property into an opportunity. The College sells the donated home and uses the proceeds to support scholarships, often for local students. This simple, impactful process allows donors to leave a lasting legacy, support education, and give back to the community.
