Bidwell Engebretson Tusen Takk Volunteer Fund

Purpose: Endows the future of the ABSF's volunteer program with "Tusen Takk" ("a thousand thanks" in Norwegian) recognizing the critical role of dedicated Birkie volunteers.

Background: Established by Jane Bidwell and Marcia Engebretson, long-time Birkie participants and volunteers themselves. They believe volunteers are the most important element in the Birkie's success.

Context: Last year 3,894 Birkie volunteers worked to make ABSF events successful

Fund Uses:

• Bibs and jackets for volunteers
• Volunteer participant gifts
• Appreciation celebrations
• Recruitment & retention programs
• Communication tools and training
• Goal: endow all volunteer-related expenses in the future

Membership Benefit: Donors making a gift of $1,000 or more become de facto members of the Birkie Legacy Circle and receive race day bibs with distinctive gold Birkie Legacy Circle shield logo

Types of Gifts Accepted:

• Planned gifts: bequest in a will, charitable remainder trust
• Outright gifts: cash, stock, property, IRA required minimum distribution (RMD)

Organization: Foundation for the Endowment of the American Birkebeiner, EIN 81-1350039