Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Foundation

The Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and operation of Stan Hywet Hall, a historic house museum located in Akron, Ohio. Established in 1957, it is categorized under Arts, Culture, and Humanities, with a focus on Single Organization Support (NTEE)[1].

History

Stan Hywet Hall was originally built by F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, between 1912 and 1915 as a residence for his family. The estate includes a 64,500-square-foot manor house, five historic buildings, and ten fully restored gardens on a 70-acre property. After F.A. Seiberling's death in 1955, his children gifted the estate to the community to operate as a non-profit historic house museum[4].

Mission and Programs

The foundation's mission is to provide educational, cultural, and inspirational experiences through Stan Hywet's historic architecture and landscapes. It offers educational programs aligned with national and state curriculum standards, including self-directed activities for schools and groups[3]. Additionally, the foundation manages the estate's vast archives and collections, which are part of the OhioMemory digital collection[4].

Financial Operations

The foundation's primary sources of revenue include investment income and the sale of assets, which support its operational costs and preservation efforts[1]. It has been actively working to enhance its endowment, with a goal to ensure long-term sustainability of the estate through a 5% distribution based on a three-year rolling average[2]. The 2nd Century Campaign aims to grow this endowment to cover restoration and preservation needs.

Endowment and Sustainability

The foundation established an endowment fund in 1957, which generates income crucial for maintaining the estate's capital restoration and preservation requirements. The 2nd Century Campaign is focused on increasing this endowment to meet future operational needs, offering named endowment opportunities to significant donors[2].

Annual Fund

The Annual Fund plays a vital role in supporting the estate's maintenance, educational programs, and special events. Contributions to this fund are 100% tax-deductible and are recognized based on gift levels[5].