Ruth Allen's Bequest Helps Friends Grow

Prior to her death, no one at Friends of the Columbia Gorge knew Ruth Allen, but her bequest left a signature, indelible mark on the organization. When her $370,000 unrestricted gift was received in 1993, the organization was small and had many needs but the board of directors decided to invest the fund. It was a wise move as the funds doubled in four years, allowing the board to create an endowment and slowly add staff to build the strength of the organization and ensuring a strong voice for Gorge protection on such critical issues as stopping the building of a casino and protection of Cape Horn.