The President General's Project: It's Our Turn to Rise and Shine

Patrice Powley Birner, National Chair, President General’s Project

We admire the early Daughters for their vision and determination as they aspired to build a national DAR headquarters and funded construction of Memorial Continental Hall, the Administration Building, and DAR Constitution Hall through member support. It’s our turn to Rise and Shine for the National Society by completing the final phase of restoration for DAR Constitution Hall that will bring back the historic character of the John Russell Pope design while making it a state-of-the-art performance venue.

At a cost of more than $14 million, this undertaking will be the largest President General’s Project in our Society’s history, and the generous support of members, chapters, and states has helped generate $7.5 million of the $10 million fundraising goal. Let’s demonstrate the same vision and determination as our predecessors by working together to raise the remaining $2.5 million needed to get the project across the finish line. 

How can you help? Supporting the President General’s Project is as easy as one, two, three!  

1. The President General’s Project Member Contribution of $7.50 is the simplest way for members to make an impact.

For less than a penny a day, your chapter contribution is helping to replace the cracked concrete auditorium floor, remediate asbestos and lead paint, reinforce the ceiling’s infrastructure, and so much more. Chapter regents and treasurers should review the “PG’s Project 100% Status Report” in e-Membership for the required contribution and any remaining balance to be sure that your chapter is recognized for achieving 100% participation. Your state will receive special recognition for achieving 100% participation as well, so each member is instrumental to the success of her chapter and state!

2. Making a donation to the President General’s Project through the Office of Development is the best way to be recognized for your support.

As Virtual Congress approaches, there is a fun way that you can support the President General’s Project and “attend in person” the historic unveiling of the restored DAR Constitution Hall. Watch for more details about the ability to place your Congress Cut Out photo in a brand-new seat for the debut of our newly renovated Hall – and even the opportunity to be joined by your family and/or chapter members from throughout the decades in celebrating the restoration of our National Historic Landmark. As always, your Congress Cut Out purchase will count toward your donor recognition levels.

The VanBuren President General’s Project pin may be purchased and worn on the official ribbon with a one-time donation of $100 or more. At $300 or more, donors are recognized with an inscription on the Rise and Shine for America Donor Wall. The VanBuren Benefactor pin and certificate are presented to members who make a one-time donation of $1,250 or more, and donors whose contributions total $2,500 or more are recognized as VanBuren Patriots and receive a complimentary pin and certificate. 

You may make your donation online at www.dar.org/NextAct, by telephone at (800) 449-1776 or by mail using the Donations and Contributions Form DEV-1003. The Office of Development staff are available to help you determine the best options to meet your needs. You may visit https://dar.10to8.com to set up an appointment with one of our staff members or email your questions to [email protected]. Please consider allocating all or part of your monthly Sustaining Supporter contribution to the President General’s Project. Remember that these donations as well as those donations made throughout the year, through the quarterly fund raising appeals, Giving Tuesday and the year-end appeal all qualify for Heritage Club credit!

3. Shopping at the DAR Store is the most fun way to support the President General’s Project.

From the comfort of home, you can browse the wonderful selection of VanBuren Administration items or call the DAR Store at (888) 673-2732 to place an order.

The new Sunshine Purse Scarf coordinates with the classic Sunshine Scarf and will add extra style to a handbag or the Sunshine Tote Bag. The elegant VanBuren 1776 Beaded Purse or Shawl will dress up any outfit while the Red Fleece Vest, Blue Pullover, DAR Beanie, Sun Apron, and Sunshine Mask are the perfect apparel to wear for your service projects.  

Looking for an idea to recognize those who have made a difference during the pandemic? Chapters can applaud the service of members who have sewn masks and other PPE items by presenting the VanBuren Sunshine Mask Pin and DAR USA Mask Puzzle to them. Spread sunshine in your community by thanking healthcare workers, police, firefighters, and members of the military with the Salute Note Cards and matching Salute Pins.

Don’t miss the opportunity to complete your collection of Rise and Shine for America jewelry pieces and accessories with the Sunshine Post Earrings and Shoe Clips. It’s a win-win situation as we support the restoration of DAR Constitution Hall while enjoying some retail therapy!

Thank you for your continued support of the President General’s Project as we Rise and Shine for our National Historic Landmark, DAR Constitution Hall.

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