Support Flanders

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with various sources of income. One of these is the support of its members and from the public-at-large. There are many great ways to contribute to Flanders that will assist us in meeting our mission and fund our day-to-day operations. Become a member, participate in our programs and events, help us when we hold our fundraisers in ways that bring you joy and satisfaction. Learn more below.

Membership Benefits & Opportunities

Members lead the way at Flanders. As a member you not only have discounts on great programs, but you have a role in deciding the activities, goals and direction at Flanders. We hope you will take pride in being part of this family who care deeply about land preservation and stewardship, as well as exceptional art and environmental education programs for all ages. Flanders By-Laws give each member a vote to elect its Board of Directors. You are able to vote for 5 new Board members at our Annual Meeting with a current tax-deductible membership.

Become a member of Flanders

Individual – $45

  • Discounts on classes, other programs and specific events
  • Invitation to Annual Meeting and election privileges
Join Now

Family – $75
(2 adults and children under age 21)

  • Discounts on classes, other programs and specific events
  • Discounts on summer camp
  • Invitation to the Annual Meeting and election privileges
  • Opportunity to host a children’s birthday party at Flanders
Join Now

Sustaining Memberships

  • Cedar $100
  • White Birch $250
  • Hickory $500
Join Now

Orchid Society

  • Chestnut $1,000
  • Sugar Maple $3,000
Join Now

Colonial Flanders Campaign

Join Our Colonial Flanders Campaign

We believe land and farm are living classrooms that our 2,400 acres of preserved space offers Connecticut’s residents unprecedented opportunities to gain knowledge.

Immersive spaces build a deep and life-long appreciation of our natural world. Nature inspires the hearts of poets and vision of artists. It calms and heals us in its own way. When we care, we deepen our connection to the earth and to each other as a community

We can do so much more for our children, our environment, and our community by expanding and improving our infrastructure.  Help us turn our dream into reality! ► DONATE

Phase I

The Bus Loop is now completed, giving buses and cars a safe turnaround zone. Construction of a one half mile minimally-graded Accessible Farm Trail with benches will allow people using wheelchairs, strollers and other devices to enjoy nature. * Thanks to a generous bequest by the Estate of Pam & Don Goss, and grants by AARP, Watertown Foundation and SMPS Family Fund.

Phase II

AGRICULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PAVILION*

A NEW energy-efficient, climate-controlled, accessible two-story building with a capacity of 100 people will change our ability to host quality education programs and provide a much needed community gathering space. *

Partially funded by grants from the Woodward Foundation and with help from Congresswoman Jahana Hayes.

Phase III

EXPAND FLANDERS’ EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Flanders’ preschool programs fill up fast and applicants are turned away. A thorough, energy efficient renovation and furnishing of the farm house to meet safety and facility codes for this age group, will create a special place where children can build joyful experiences with farm animals and nature.

Phase IV

NEW FARM UTILITY BUILDING

A single-story garage with equipment storage and shop facility will replace the existing pole barn. It will house the Flanders truck, tractors, farm equipment, supplies, and have a modest shop for repairs and small projects.

Phase V

UPGRADE VAN VLECK HOUSE & GROUNDS, THE NORTH BARN*

The 1786 Van Vleck house needs exterior painting, repairs and renovations. The electrical, plumbing, siding, and fencing at the North Barn Complex will be upgraded.

*Partially funded by NRCS

Other Ways Of Giving

There are many ways to donate to a cause you care about.

AN OUTRIGHT DONATION

  • A one-time gift via check, cash or credit card
  • Recurring donations in small monthly amounts can be set up via our website’s donation page
  • Gift from a donor-advised fund, a family trust or private foundation
  • Donation of securities (appreciated stock donated to a 501(c)3 is tax-deductible and saves on capital gains)
  • RMD-Mandatory disbursement of your IRA (will also help manage your taxable income)

 

LEGACY GIFTS
If you believe in our mission, and wish to leave a legacy to Flanders, know that your gift, no matter its size, is an ultimate expression of support and friendship. Your assets are carefully invested and safeguarded for generations.

  • Bequeath funds as part of your will or living trust
  • Add Flanders as a beneficiary to gift retirement assets or life insurance proceeds
  • Add a bequest of land or tangible property to Flanders

Gifts may go to our area of greatest need, or designate it to your favorite cause such as campership, land management, or towards a specific fund at Flanders. It takes many to make Flanders great, but it only takes one to make a difference.

For more information on membership and giving to Flanders, please contact us!  Director of Development, Jeannette Purdy at 203.263.3711 x 15 or email jeannette@flandersnaturecenter.org.

 

Did You Know?

FLANDERS ALSO ACCEPTS:

  • Donate a used car in any condition: https://careasy.org/flanders-nature-center-land-trust, or call 855.500.7433. They will pick up and resell, proceeds are donated to Flanders with a tax-deduction for you.
  • Donate new, old, collectible items to our Ebay for Charity store
  • Donate new, used or vintage apparel to our Poshmark store
  • Donate auction items for our Summer Soiree gala such as trips, meals, stays, tickets and art
  • Donate services rendered to Flanders. Speak with Jeannette!