Betsey Ann Association earns 501(c)(3) status
The Betsey Ann Association has officially received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, opening a new chapter for the organization and creating an opportunity for community members to make tax-deductible donations in support of Betsey Ann Park, civic improvements, and the Brighton Museum.
For decades, the Betsey Ann Association has operated as a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to promoting and financing civic and patriotic improvements in the Village of Brighton and the surrounding communities of Piasa and Brighton townships. The organization was previously a 501(c)(4) nonprofit with unrecognized status and has never received funding from local, state, or federal government sources.
“Our park facilities are worn and in need of expensive upgrades, repairs and modernization,” said Reggie Conlee, President of the Betsey Ann Association Board. “The Betsey Ann Association has always operated with volunteer help and personal donations. No income has ever come from local, state, or federal government – we are not supported by tax dollars in any way.”
In addition to maintaining Betsey Ann Park, the Association is also responsible for operating the Brighton Museum, which preserves and shares the history of the local community.
“The importance of our new 501(c)(3) status is that it allows anyone to support us financially with the benefit of a tax deduction,” Conlee said. “Our goal is to continue to support the community, promote civic and patriotic improvements, and preserve our local history through the Brighton Museum.”
With 501(c)(3) designation now secured, leaders hope to encourage broader financial support to help address needed park improvements and facility upgrades.
Upcoming fundraising and community events include a community yard sale on April 18 and the annual Betsey Ann Picnic on June 19 and 20. Funds raised from these events will directly support park improvements and the Brighton Museum.
With its new 501(c)(3) status, the Betsey Ann Association is inviting residents, visitors, and supporters to invest in the future of Betsey Ann Park and the preservation of Brighton’s local history. Community members can support the mission by making a tax-deductible donation at www.betseyann.org or by volunteering to help with the annual picnic. To volunteer, individuals may also leave a message or text Reggie Conlee at 618-225-7757 or Darin Werts at 618-741-6941. To donate, individuals may also mail a contribution to P.O. Box 595 Brighton, IL 62012.
