THE 1881 FOUNDATION – A CAMPAIGN FOR THE NEXT 100 YEARS

Ways To Support The 1881 Foundation

John and Jenny Isenberg's wedding at Oakwood with attendants Lynn Epstein Poskin and Tom Isenberg, 1983.

We have launched a voluntary fundraising campaign to preserve and enhance Oakwood’s historic clubhouse and grounds. As a tax-exempt organization, all contributions will directly support ongoing restoration efforts and improvements ensure Oakwood’s legacy endures for future generations. The Foundation’s success depends on private contributions from members and from the community at large who share our passion for historic preservation, golf, and a strong club culture. Your support will fund critical renovations, ensuring our facilities remain world-class while respecting the club’s original character.

A successful fundraising campaign ensures Oakwood can make improvements without future special assessments. Together, we can protect Oakwood’s rich history and ensure its future remains just as vibrant.

Fred Clarkson and two golf professionals at Oakwood for a tournament in 1915

The Foundation has formed a Board of Directors, whose members will play a vital role in overseeing the preservation efforts, fundraising initiatives, and long-term planning to maintain Oakwood’s historic charm and structural integrity.

There are two other leadership groups forming:
A Community Advisory Board where members and non-members will provide knowledge and expertise and assist with future goals. And we are seeking dedicated members who share a passion for Oakwood’s history and future to serve as Campaign Cabinet Leaders, a subgroup of the Community Advisory Board. These individuals will play a key role in championing our mission, helping to rally support, and guiding fundraising efforts, both locally and nationally. If you are interested in becoming a leader in this vital initiative or learning more about how you can contribute, please reach out. Together, we can preserve the heart of Oakwood while continuing its transformation for generations to come.


“Oakwood has been very special to me. In the Jewish community, it played a big part... there were Federation dinners, golf tournaments... The FBI Citizens Academy Tournament was one of the early outside tournaments allowed at Oakwood.”

— Myron Wang

Supporting Oakwood’s preservation through the 1881 Foundation is flexible and accessible. Contributions can be made as upfront donations or pledged over several years, with options to give as noted above.

No immediate payment is required — donations are due by the end of the year in which they are pledged.

We encourage 100% participation by our members to show our community’s shared commitment to Oakwood’s legacy. We also hope to see widespread community involvement both locally and nationally.

DONOR RECOGNITION & GIVING LEVELS

No gift is too small or too large — every contribution strengthens Oakwood’s future.

All donors will be recognized in marketing and social media. 1881 Society donors will have a permanent plaque, monument, or other remembrance of their donations placed at a visible site at the club.

How To Pledge

Donate securely through our button or pick up a donor pledge card at the front desk.

Thank you for your support in preserving Oakwood’s historic legacy for generations to come!

THE TAX-EXEMPT ADVANTAGE

Robert Weneck, Tom Brokaw, Mrs. Weneck, David Brinkley, and John Chancellor party at Oakwood for the Republican National Convention, 1976.

Donations to the 1881 Foundation are fully tax-deductible, making it a smart philanthropic investment for individuals and businesses alike.

Donations can also be made from your Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Please consult your tax advisor.

Stock/securities, real estate, bonds, or other non-cash assets are also accepted.