WE NEED
YOUR SUPPORT NOW
WHY NOW?
Today's operating cemeteries face unprecedented challenges.
As the death care industry paradigm shifts from higher burial revenues to lower revenue from cremations, many historic - and operating - cemeteries find themselves struggling financially.
Historic Easton Cemetery is no different.
The cost of simply maintaining and sustaining our cemetery is approximately $35,000 each month.
Founded in 1849 and on the National Register of Historic Sites, it was designed based on the picturesque romantic styles of the 19th century, making it the perfect place for Sunday promenading and quiet recreation of families of all socio-economic means of the community.
We are determined to bring the Historic Easton Cemetery back to life, just as it was when it first opened its gates in 1849.
ACCEPTING THE CHALLENGE.
We have a vision, and we have a plan to get there. So far, we have invested in:
1
Operational Efficiencies
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Created and hired an executive position with a focus on awareness, fundraising, and business modeling
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Contracted out many of our services (mowing, landscaping, tree removal, burials, etc.)
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Running a strategically lean operation to keep expenses down
2
Community Awareness, Engagement & Support
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Added four new board members with representation from Lafayette College and Greater Easton Development Partnership
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Increased awareness of the cemetery through popular event programming
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Cultivated an active volunteer community
3
Non-Profit Foundation & Endowment
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Established the Friends of Historic Easton Cemetery, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded to preserve, protect, and promote the cemetery
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Developed a sustainable strategy, including Membership Circles, large sponsorship and named-giving opportunities, planned giving, and signature events
THAT'S JUST THE BEGINNING.
We know we have more work to do, and we have an incredibly dedicated team of staff, board members, and volunteers.
We need your help now to protect the past by investing in the future.
To build upon our momentum, please consider helping the beautiful Historic Easton Cemetery by making a tax deductible donation to our Stabilization and Growth fund.
No matter the size of your donation, all contributions will advance our efforts to protect the past by investing in the future of the Historic Easton Cemetery.
Support us today!
Donations to our Endowment Fund TODAY, ensure we have the resources to implement our long-term vision, tomorrow.
Thank you, in advance, for helping us achieve this goal.
MORE WAYS TO HELP.
Volunteer Your Time
Check out our volunteer page for current opportunities.
Be a Sponsor
Would you or your company be willing to sponsor part of the cemetery or an event? Reach out to us.
Donate Your Services
If you would be willing to donate your skilled labor, resources, or profits from a fundraising event, please reach out.
Employer Matching
See if your employer will match your donation and make your gift go twice as far.
Spread the Word
Talk about the cemetery with your friends, family, and community!
Grant Writing
We are looking for grant writer(s) that would be willing to work pro bono.
What You're Supporting
Keep Our Gates Open
We have a vision for the future, but we need your help NOW to ensure that we have the time to put it in place for generations to come.
Road Repaving
Cars were allowed in Easton Cemetery in 1913 and it soon became apparent that the dirt roads were no longer adequate. Now the cemetery is faced with the daunting problem of replacing the 2.3 miles of roads within
the grounds.
Protect Our Green Space
With 85 acres of greenery, this is the largest public green space in Easton. And keeping the 2.3 miles of roads maintained as well as grass mowed and snow and debris cleaned is an expensive endeavor for a very learn
grounds crew.
Community & Education
Throughout the year, Friends of Historic Easton Cemetery hosts a number of events and programming including cemetery tours, a 5k run/walk, Community Day and 4th grade field trips for the Easton Area School District.
Preserve History
With over 42,500 buried and 177 years of historical figures, war heroes, famous artists, and notable and loved Easton residents, Historic Easton Cemetery tells the history of Easton, by remembering the deceased.
Monument Restoration
Our mausoleum was built in 1917 and all of the burial niches within it were quickly sold. But after 109 years, this beautiful structure is badly in need of repair. The Friends of Historic Easton Cemetery were instrumental in the restoration of the George Taylor Monument, located in front of
the chapel.