What is the Fort Williams Charitable Foundation?

The Fort Williams Charitable Foundation was established by the Town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine in the Summer of 2001. It is a tax qualified 501(c)(3) Charitable organization neither controlled by nor supported by the town. Contributions to the foundation are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law and earnings of the foundation are free from taxation.

Why was the Foundation established?

The Foundation was established to raise funds for the preservation and improvement of Fort Williams Park, a 90 acre ocean front park located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams is a unique scenic, historic and recreational site that attracts three quarters of a million visitors annually. It is open free to everyone 365 days of the year.

What are the Foundation's long term goals?

The Foundation's goals are to raise money to pay for improvements in the park, to establish an endowment fund the income from which will be used to maintain the park in the highest state of repair and to insure free and open access to the park for all.

Does this mean the Fort Williams Advisory Commission is no longer needed?

The Fort Williams Advisory Commission is a town appointed board whose mission is to make recommendations to the Town Council regarding the operation, preservation and improvement of the park. The FWAC will continue to function as it always has. The Foundation's role is to raise money, whereas the Advisory Commission recommends how to spend it.

How do the Cape Elizabeth Town Council, the Advisory Commission, the Public Works Department and the Foundation all work in the best interest of the Park?

The Town Council has ultimate responsibility for the park which is town property. The Advisory Commission monitors the capital needs, maintenance and operational policies of the park and makes recommendations to the Council for approval. The Public Works Department implements those recommendations directly or through sub-contractors. The Foundation ultimately will provide the necessary funding to make this possible.

The Museum at Portland Head Light is an IRS qualified charitable organization. Why is the Foundation needed?

The charter of the Museum at Portland Head Light requires that all profits from the operation of the museum and gift shop be used to maintain the lighthouse, the museum and adjacent grounds. The Foundation will support other areas of the park.

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