Ways to Give
Philanthropy: A Pillar of The Athenaeum
The Past
As The Athenaeum celebrates 90 years as the crown jewel of the Caltech campus, we pause to acknowledge a history built on philanthropy. George Ellery Hale, Caltech Trustee and renowned scientist, envisioned a club on campus to promote social, cultural, and intellectual interaction among leading local institutions. In 1929, Allen and Janet Balch supported Dr. Hale’s lofty idea with a gift of approximately $500,000 to create The Athenaeum, the club of his dreams. The Athenaeum debuted its grand building and gardens in November 1930, due to the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Balch.
The Present
Currently, The Athenaeum continues to uphold the legacy of Dr. Hale and Mr. and Mrs. Balch, by providing a focus for the social life of Caltech’s campus. Now as then, however, the club depends upon the generosity of its members to maintain its edifice and gardens to the level demanded by its history and its members. To this end, the Athenaeum Architectural Preservation Fund (AAPF) was created to support the club’s maintenance and restoration needs.
The Future
You, our esteemed Athenaeum member or friend, are critical to the future of the club. We invite you to support the Athenaeum Architectural Preservation Fund by making a tax-deductible donation today.
How to Give
- Online: Go to Caltech.edu: Give Now.
- By check: Please make your check out to “AAPF” and mail to Marisu Jimenez, General Manager, The Athenaeum, 551 South Hill Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106.
- Wire transfer: Please email Marisu Jimenez at [email protected] for wire instructions.
If you would like to explore more complex gift vehicles, such as multi-year pledges, planned gifts, or the donation of appreciated securities, we welcome your inquiry. The Athenaeum also offers recognition on our donor board, naming opportunities, and special projects.
For more information, please contact:
Thank you for your consideration. Your gift today will help to secure The Athenaeum in the future.