Overview
Donating funds to save land—or donating land itself—leaves a lasting legacy that permanently preserves the natural beauty and environmental health of Cape Cod. The region’s shared quality of life is deeply rooted in its open spaces, coastal plain ponds, and fragile ecosystems.
Whether you wish to make an immediate impact or establish a planned gift, The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts offers several tailored giving pathways to advance regional conservation.
Ways to Donate
1. General Fund (Most Needed)
Directs unrestricted funds to where they are needed most, allowing The Compact flexibility to respond quickly to urgent land acquisition opportunities, legal challenges, and regional conservation priorities.
2. The Thomsen Land Fund for Cape Cod
Supports a dedicated revolving capital fund that provides zero- and low-interest loans to local non-profit land trusts across the Cape to secure and preserve critical acreage.
3. Specific Land Trust Acquisition Projects
Allows donors to direct contributions toward targeted land protection campaigns outlined in our Land Protection Wish List. The Compact will forward 100% of your contribution to the designated local land trust—either anonymously or with acknowledgment, according to your preference.
4. Land Donations
If you are interested in donating fee-simple land or placing a Conservation Restriction (CR) on your property, The Compact will guide you and connect you with the appropriate municipal or local land trust partner.
Direct Contribution Methods
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Instant Online Giving: Donate securely via PayPal using our online portal.
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By Check: Mail payable to:
The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc.
P.O. Box 443
Barnstable, MA 02630 -
Appreciated Securities: Transfer stocks or bonds directly. Contact us to receive account and routing details.
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Tax Identification Number: Federal Tax I.D. 04-2925813
How to Make a Bequest (Planned Giving)
For many conservation supporters, a bequest in an estate plan is the most effective way to make a transformative impact. You can include The Compact in your financial planning by:
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Creating a new will
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Adding a codicil to your existing will
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Including The Compact in your revocable trust
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Designating The Compact as a primary or contingent beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance policy
Important Note: Bequests should be made payable to the official corporate entity: "The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc." Unless explicitly specified otherwise, gifts are treated as unrestricted donations for general conservation purposes.
Sample Bequest Language for Advisors
To ensure your intentions are carried out precisely, estate documents should be prepared with your legal counsel. Below are standard drafting templates:
General / Unrestricted Bequest
"I give [___ dollars / ___ percent of my estate] to The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. (Federal Tax I.D. Number: 04-2925813), a Massachusetts charitable corporation having an address at 3239 Main Street, P.O. Box 443, Barnstable, Massachusetts, for the benefit of The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc., and for its general purposes."
Designated / Thomsen Land Fund Bequest
"I give [___ dollars / ___ percent of my estate] to The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. (Federal Tax I.D. Number: 04-2925813), a Massachusetts charitable corporation having an address at 3239 Main Street, P.O. Box 443, Barnstable, Massachusetts, for the benefit of The Compact’s Thomsen Land Fund for Cape Cod."
Specific Purpose / Endowment Bequest
"I give [___ dollars / ___ percent of my estate] to The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. (Federal Tax I.D. Number: 04-2925813), a Massachusetts charitable corporation having an address at 3239 Main Street, P.O. Box 443, Barnstable, Massachusetts, for the benefit of The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc., and for [state specific purpose]. If, in the future, in the opinion of The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc., all or part of the income of this fund cannot be usefully applied to the above purpose, it may be used for any purpose within the powers of The Compact that will most nearly accomplish my wishes and purposes."
Confidential Consultation & Contact
To confirm that your estate plans align with your goals, we welcome the opportunity to review pertinent language prior to final execution. All estate disclosures are held in strict confidence.
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Executive Director Consultation: Mark Robinson
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Phone: (508) 694-7415
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Email: mark@thecompact.net
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Mailing Address: P.O. Box 443, Barnstable, MA 02630