Make an Impact at Whitworth

Whitworth environmental studies students take water samples at the Verbrugge Environmental Center along the Little Spokane River.

Consider a Gift of Real Estate

As you plan your legacy, a gift of real estate may be the perfect option for you to consider. One of Whitworth's unique real estate gifts is the university's Verbrugge Environmental Center, a teaching, learning, and conservation center nestled in the beautiful Scotia Valley 35 miles northeast of campus. Offering 605 acres of forested land where faculty and students do hands-on research, the center provides students opportunities to investigate issues related to resource conservation, human ecology, ethno-botany, and ecosystem restoration; they also engage in basic and applied ecological research.

How did Whitworth receive this gift?

Durand and Betty Verbrugge created the Verbrugge Living Trust in 1997, documenting their desire to donate their beloved 605 Scotia Valley acres to Whitworth upon the death of their son Gary, who currently lives on the property. Durand and Betty have both passed away, but in fall 2017 Gary gave his own legacy gift to Whitworth and its environmental studies program by confirming that upon his death, his parents' desire will be fulfilled.

"The Verbrugge family's legacy is remarkable, creating opportunities for generations of students to care for and steward God's creation," says Dave LejaMeyer, development director at Whitworth and hands-on participant in the work Whitworth students do on the property. "Providing this platform of education fulfills the Verbrugges' dream of restoring the land and teaching others how to do the same. We are incredibly grateful for their vision and stewardship."

If you would like to help fulfill Whitworth's mission with a gift of real estate, your property can serve as a unique giving opportunity.

There are various ways to donate real estate:

• Donate property and secure a deduction for the full value.
• Give your home but enjoy lifetime use.
• Donate real estate and obtain income for life from your gift.
• Give real estate through your will.

Real estate gifts can be complex, depending on the property involved. Therefore, we recommend consulting with your professional advisors.

Let's Work Together

We would be happy to assist your attorney and other advisors in designing the most suitable gift plan for you. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Stacey Kamm Smith at 509.777.4388 or skammsmith@whitworth.edu.