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Ruthmere Cornerstones

NEW FOR 2026!  Ruthmere is launching a NEW philanthropic annual giving circle for major donors--Ruthmere Cornerstones. 

The strongest building parts of any structure are the foundation cornerstones.  They provide the stability and support which allows a beautiful building (or organization, such as Ruthmere) to rise and reach for the sky with artistic and transformative aspirations. 


Most architecturally significant buildings have four designated cornerstones, and in this same way, most philanthropic donors often have four charities or repositories as their top tier giving priorities.  Is Ruthmere Campus one of your four cornerstones of giving?  If it is, we would like to include you in our prestigious group known as the Ruthmere Cornerstones.         

What does it take to be a Ruthmere Cornerstone? 

  • Minimum $5,000 annual support across ALL platforms of Ruthmere giving, such as Ruthmere Forever, Signature Events (fundraisers), program sponsorships, endowed fund gifts, etc. 
  • Ruthmere Cornerstone is a RECOGNITION level, not a type of gift.  No matter how you support Ruthmere Arts & History Campus, if it adds up to $5,000 or more during a calendar year, then YOU ARE A RUTHMERE CORNERSTONE! 

What do you receive as a Ruthmere Cornerstone?

  • Ruthmere Cornerstones receive complimentary Ruthmere Private Membership.  You will NOT be billed separately for membership.
  • Ruthmere hosts an annual informal social event for all Cornerstones in October to come together as peers for both recognition and the opportunity to see sneak peak previews of upcoming exhibitions and programs as well as offer guidance and suggestions to Ruthmere Board and Executive Staff for future initiatives.
  • Cornerstones are our best supporters, and we want to not only thank you, but also listen to your hopes and desires for what you want to see Ruthmere Arts & History Campus become.



Ruthmere Cornerstones 2026



"Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely." 
Auguste Rodin


Auguste Rodin's The Fallen Caryatid Carrying Her Stone

To learn more about becoming a Ruthmere Cornerstone, contact Executive Director Bill Firstenberger at 574-264-0330 ext. 105, or by email at bfirstenberger@ruthmere.org.   

(574)-264-0330

(888)-287-7696


The Havilah Beardsley House:

102 W. Beardsley Ave., Elkhart, IN 46514

Ruthmere/Mailing Address:

302 E. Beardsley Ave., Elkhart, IN 46514

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