Village Improvement Association (V.I.A.)
595 West State Street
Doylestown, Pa 18901
215-345-2347

The Village Improvement Association has been the beneficiary of a number of generous legacies during the past century that have helped those in need in our community, created a club house for our association, and funded a number of worthwhile projects. In addition, beautiful gifts-in-kind, like furniture, silver and other furnishings, have been given in support of our mission. The V.I.A. wishes to promote planned giving now and in the future "to initiate and support programs that will enhance the quality of life in our community."

The 1895 Society

To achieve these goals, the V.I.A. Planned Giving Committee announces the creation of The 1895 Society to recognize all persons who have given a planned gift of $100 or more to the V.I.A.

Members of The 1895 Society will receive the special membership pin and be recognized on a plaque that will hang in the James-Lorah Memorial Home auditorium.

If the donor wishes, gifts may be made in honor of or in tribute to any person, and an acknowledgement will be sent to a specified person if an address is provided.

There are three special recognition levels within The 1895 Society

Donors of $1000 to $4,999:
Belong to the Blue and White Society

Donors of $5000 to $9,999:
Belong to the Second Century Society

Donors of $10,000 or more:
Would belong to the Millennium Society

The 1895 Society recognizes cumulative gifts, which means that a person's name could move to a new recognition level at the time a new gift is received. Gifts at the time of a member's passing could also change the recognition level. To the best of the V.I.A.'s ability, donors will be honored from the founding of the V.I.A. Deceased donors will be indicated by an asterisk on the recognition plaque. Gifts-in-kind will be recognized at the appraised value at the time of the gift.

For more information about The 1895 Society, please contact the V.I.A. Planned Giving Committee Chairman, Judy Melson, 215-348-3979. 

How to Join?

In addition to outright gifts of cash and a legacy or bequest through a will, there are a number of ways to join The 1895 Society. There are certain tax advantages that accrue to those who make "planned" gifts, and selecting the right form of gift can be worth taking time to "plan." For example, a gift of stock, real estate, insurance, or personal property may be more advantageous than an outright gift.

If you are considering membership, please give Judy Melson a call. They can put you in touch with a person who can help you make this decision, or you can seek the assistance of your legal and financial advisors. Sound planning can provide financial security for you and your family as well as ensure the continuation of the worthy program outlined above.

Who Will Benefit?

The Welfare Fund Committee:
Provides assistance to individuals in our community who are in need of food, shelter, clothing and medical care. This is done with absolute confidentiality and compassion for those helped.

The James-Lorah Memorial Home:
Funds the operation and maintenance of the historic home and its contents, restores and conserves the contents, and makes the home available for tours and public events.

The Women's Scholarship Fund:
Provides modest financial support for eligible women who seek the education or vocational training necessary to prepare them for the job market.

The Community Response Fund:
Funds unmet community health and human services needs through the addition or enhancement of a program or service to improve the quality of life in Bucks County.

The Unrestricted Endowment:
Provides interest or dividend income to further the mission of the V.I.A.