Donation Page
Donate how you want
We’re thrilled that you are interested in donating to the program.
We want to give you as much choice as we can to where your contribution goes, whether it’s to help the folks on the water today or to grow MRA funds supporting oarsmen years to come.
1. Donations Directly to the UMass Team (University Accounts)
Immediate-use gifts deposited into the team’s official Campus Recreation accounts.
Managed by the student Executive Board and coaching staff under university rules.
Best for short-term needs, regatta fees, equipment repairs, and operational spending.
2. Donations to the “Bob Ford Endowment” (via UMass Foundation)
Managed through the UMass Foundation as a formal, restricted endowment.
Principal is preserved; annual investment income supports the team.
Eligible for IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions, ideal for older alumni.
Aims to build long-term financial sustainability.
3. Donations to the MRA Operating Fund
This fund is intended for unrestricted, flexible support controlled by the MRA Board. It consists of:
A. Operating HYSA (High Yield Savings Account)
Holds the majority of operating cash.
Earns interest while funds accumulate.
Board approval required for transfers into checking.
No donor restrictions on use.
B. Operating Disbursement Checking Account
Used for payments, vendor checks, ACH transfers, or reimbursements.
Holds only the amount intentionally transferred from the HYSA.
No check-writing or spending occurs directly from the HYSA.
Purpose: Support near-term operational needs, equipment purchases, travel support, fleet upgrades,
and Board-approved expenses.
4. Donations to the MRA Endowment (Long-Term Strategic Fund)
To be held at a financial institution such as Fidelity.
Invested in a total-market index fund or similarly diversified vehicle.
Designed for medium- to long-term growth, not operational cash flow.
Gains and interest are unrestricted; principal is considered board-restricted for long-term capital
purposes (e.g., boathouse).Donors may designate this fund if they prefer to support the team’s long-range goals.
Purpose: A future boathouse acquisition or major capital project, contingent on Board approval and an
official Investment Policy Statement (IPS).
5. MRA Chooses for me
Donor entrusts the MRA Board to direct their gift either to the Operating Fund or Endowment
depending on current needs.This option simplifies decision-making for donors unsure of the differences.
Ensures donations flow to the most strategic location at any given time.