Snafu Leaves Greenport American Legion Short Of Fundraising Goal

GREENPORT, NY — There's a flurry of activity at the American Legion Burton Potter Post 185 in Greenport, despite a setback that manager Mindy Ryan has left the facility short of its fundraising goal.

According to Mindy Ryan, donations made to the Legion through a #Giving Tuesday campaign are being sent back to contributors, "disappointing news," she said.

"Back in October I started submitting documentation and corresponding with Facebook staff to get the Burton Potter Club Inc. verified to accept tax deductible donations through Facebook," Ryan said. "We were approved just in time for #GivingTuesday. On that day we raised about $2,500 and we anticipated that at least half of that would be matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation."

About a week later, Ryan said she received a message from Facebook saying that all donations would be refunded and we would no longer be eligible for Facebook Fundraising tools because the organization is not a 501c3.

"We are a 501c19," she said, the designation for a veterans' organization.

Ryan added that there was no way to resolve the issue. "That still leaves us embarrassed and certainly annoyed and also $2,500 short on our goal. Please know that your donations to the Greenport American Legion "The Burton Potter Club Inc." are deductible."

Those who would like to donate again once their funds are returned can mail a check to the Burton Potter Club Inc., 121 3rd Street, Greenport NY 11944 or visit the Legion's website to donate.

And, Ryan said, New Year's Eve plans are still moving forward, for a glorious grand re-opening.

Single tickets cost $60, 2 tickets cost $100, a table of 8 costs $400, and a table of 10 costs $500. Advance purchase only. The event includes a buffet dinner, live music by Cashbox, a cash bar, and a champagne toast. Proceeds benefit the Legion. For tickets, click here, call 631-333-2644, or email mindy@greenportamericanlegion.org. Volunteers are needed for the night of the event, Ryan said.

The #GivingTuesday "We Can't Skate Without Skates" Facebook campaign was aimed at raising $15,000 to cover the cost of 315 pairs of roller skates.

Facebook did not respond immediately to a written request for comment.

New skates are still being delivered Thursday at noon, Ryan said, adding that volunteers are welcomed to help unload the truck.

Signs of rebirth are everywhere inside the building that has meant so much for generations of Greenport residents, and the grand re-opening has sparked excitement and memories.

"It really took a village to get this far," Ryan said. "There have been so many contractors that have donated time and materials at either no charge or for a reduced charge and so many individuals and businesses who have supported us financially. It really is heartwarming how the community came together to get us this far.

And, she added, "When the ball drops at midnight the Greenport American Legion Burton Potter post 185 is reborn," she said.

Patch photo courtesy Mindy Ryan.