Major annual gifts are greatly appreciated and can provide vital general operating support for all of the Academy of American Poets' activities. However, some prefer to earmark their major gifts for programs of special interest to them, or for one of the Academy's important educational or outreach efforts. While these contributions are usually made on an annual basis, the future of any program can be secured with an endowment gift. Support can even be directed to a specific category-for instance, to educational programs such as the Online Poetry Classroom section of Poets.org, or to a special initiative, such as the creation of a new reading series or audience development--that supports the mission of the Academy.

General endowment funds provide steady income even in the face of budgetary challenges. A healthy endowment ensures that the Academy can pursue first-rate educational and programmatic activities well into the future. An endowment contribution can be a self-renewing gift, in that the Academy's spending policy allows the principal to grow while generating a reliable income stream in perpetuity. All the Academy's activities-education, readings, general operations, and publications-benefit from an increased general endowment.

If you or an associated foundation would like more information about making a major gift or endowment in support of any of the Academy's programs, please contact Meghan Nesmith at (212) 274-0343 ext. 16 or mnesmith@poets.org.

The following are some of the areas that need support, both on an annual basis and through endowed funds:

Poetry Audio Archive
The Academy's archive of poetry readings from 1963 to the present is a nationally significant cultural treasure and an important part of America's cultural heritage. The archive requires extensive management and conservation in order to be preserved for future generations.

National Poetry Month
Each year, the Academy prints, produces, and distributes nearly 200,000 official National Poetry Month posters to schools, libraries, and bookstores. These posters literally become the focal point for thousands of NPM celebrations for students, families, and local communities. The costs for paper, printing, and postage increase every year.

Publications
Underwriting the publication of one or more issues of the Academy's biannual journal, American Poet, could entitle the donor to be named as Publisher for that issue.

Awards & Prizes
Many of our Awards & Prizes are already endowed in perpetuity. A notable exception is the Walt Whitman Award, which launches the career of one previously unpublished young poet each year. The winner receives a cash prize, an artist's residency, and publication of his or her first book, which the Academy purchases for its members, insuring an audience well beyond what most poetry books receive.

Events
Dedicating one regular reading or special event, such as our annual Chancellors Reading or Awards Ceremony. These live events reinforce poetry as a vital, thriving art. Gifts made in support of particular events or series may be acknowledged in the event program, for instance.