Yes, we did it …together. After several attempts over the past 80 years to preserve the Barclay Grounds as an open space for the community they have now been permanently saved. This beautiful and historic open space now belongs to the Borough of West Chester – and its magnificent old trees are safe from being cut down to make way for houses. Having already helped to raise over $1,000,000 in public grants and private donations, to ensure the funding was in place by the December 22nd deadline, the Barclay Grounds Preservation Alliance (BGPA) took on a loan of $144,000 to enable the property to be saved without any incremental tax burden on the residents of the Borough of West Chester. Helping to fund the purchase of the Barclay Grounds is a unique opportunity to leave a permanent personal legacy in the Borough. Please help us pay back the loan by making a tax deductible* donation (ideally by December 31st so you can deduct it on your 2015 tax return). For a donation of $150 you will receive a certificate awarding you a “Virtual Lot”** of the Barclay Grounds in recognition of your contribution. These would be a meaningful personal keepsake or a great present for anyone who loves trees, open space and West Chester. To choose your own virtual piece of the Barclay Grounds click on the following link. http://www.savethebarclaygrounds.org/own-a-virtual-piece-of-the-barclay-grounds/ If you would like to make a tax deductible donation* without purchasing a Virtual Lot you may do so by clicking on the following link http://www.savethebarclaygrounds.org/donations/ Stocks held for more than a year may be donated for their fair market value, without subjecting the donor to capital gains tax. There are exceptions to this rule, though, so please check with your tax adviser in advance. If you would like to make a donation of stocks, BGPA has an account at Scottrade to receive stock donations. Please contact BGPA Treasurer, Kristin Gerling, for more information (484-343-5787). Disclaimers: * The Barclay Grounds Preservation Alliance is a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation with the IRS and can officially accept tax deductible donations. You should consult with your tax accountant in advance to determine the tax deductibility of any donation. **Virtual lots to be sold grant no actual title, fee interest, or equitable interest in the land, have no secondary market value, and are merely a promotional sale to raise funds to preserve the grounds and prevent future development of this unique historic property. Purchaser understands that the purchase is made as a charitable contribution and shall receive a certificate of ownership and a guaranty that BGPA shall not re-sell the same virtual lot. All ownership and control over the property shall remain exclusively with the Borough of West Chester.