This RGS charter is a huge fund raiser not just to buy paint, lumber but to help restore a locomotive that will add an entirely different era to the C&T. Even if you can't make the RGS charter, consider buying a ticket helping to raise funds.
There are all kinds of ways to help the Friends. As was discussed in the meeting, the formal, existing 168 fund is a 170(c)(1)*. As such, my donation to the 168 fund was NOT matched by my employer**. I asked the commissioners if there was some avenue via a 501(c)(3), such as the Friends, that could direct funds to the 168. My employer DOES match 501(c)(3) and as such, has gotten me to donate to several organizations. On the other hand, me buying a ticket on an excursion I won't ride, won't get any kind of a match from my employer, as I received something (or could have) for my donation. So, I am bringing this up to follow up on your idea, Joe, everyone, think about a donation to the Friends if your employer will match that donation. Get your money to go twice as far.
*A 170(c)(1) is pretty much like a 503(c)(3), but different, due to being a government entity. Lawyers can much better explain the difference than I.
**My employer is free to set any rules they wish regarding the way they spend their money.