If we could see over the horizon we could identify the many conservation needs which will require solution and support in Illinois in the years to come. That is why the Illinois Conservation Foundation has a Vision beyond the horizon of today.

The vision of the Illinois Conservation Foundation is to become the primary source of contributed conservation funds in order to preserve our precious natural resources, conduct research, and foster education and recreation for the people of Illinois. The "Horizon Society" has been established to support that vision.

"The Horizon Society" members have made significant financial contributions during life, or as part of their estate plans; to a restricted endowment managed by the Illinois Conservation Foundation. This restricted endowment, known as the Horizon Fund, provides a long-term continuing source of conservation funds. Membership is open to individuals who have contributed lifetime gifts of at least $5,000 or made commitments in their estate plans providing $10,000 or more to the Horizon Fund.

Below are three convenient ways to achieve membership in the society each of which can lower taxes by avoiding income and/or estate taxes that might otherwise be due.

1. A lifetime gift of $5,000 or more in cash or appreciated securities is a simple and easy method to achieve membership. Appreciated securities can lower the cost further by avoiding capital gains taxes that could otherwise be due.

2. A gift after death of $10,000 or more as part of an estate plan removes the asset from estate taxes that otherwise might be due. A gift made by designating a portion of an IRA or other deferred benefit plan to the Horizon Fund of the Foundation could be particularly attractive as it potentially avoids not only estate taxes but income taxes that could also be due.

3. For those who would like to make a gift of $10,000 or more now, but retain the income from this gift for the balance of their life a "Pooled Income Fund" could be a very attractive choice. The donor would receive a partial current income tax deduction, but retain the dividends and interest on the contributed assets for life.

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