From the Hayloft

By Jacqueline Devine

2005

Some have asked why I left the exciting field of advertising, where I had 19 years of tenure with a leading agency, high-profile clients, and an executive office with a panoramic view in the Butler Mansion, for a nonprofit post in the “hayloft” of the carriage house at Terrace Hill. Those who know me better know it was inevitable.

In late January 2005, my 20-year love affair with Terrace Hill finally moved past the long-engagement stage to a union of passion and purpose. As development director at Terrace Hill, I am able to focus all my energies and experience on securing the future of this grand historic landmark.

Having served as a Commissioner appointed by two governors, as a Society board member, and as Foundation president, I bring to the position institutional insight and an appreciation for the fact that I am not alone in my love for Terrace Hill. Residents, volunteers, staff, inmates and visitors all feel the link of affection for this home that the Hubbells generously gave to Iowa in 1971.

As development director, it is my goal—and responsibility—to help people make the link between caring for Terrace Hill and giving to Terrace Hill.

It is easy to love Terrace Hill. Those who spend time here whether extending hospitality or sharing professional skills know that time at Terrace Hill is richly rewarding. Congenial camaraderie, grateful residents and cooperative staff make Terrace Hill one of the best volunteer experiences available in Iowa.

Viewed from a closer perspective, it has taken only two weeks of working here to witness the magnitude of the needs, the conscientious frugality of the staff and the appreciation of all on those days when the mail delivers more donations than bills.

Terrace Hill has been without a development director since October 2004. We are, understandably, behind in our fundraising efforts to meet the essential $200,000 annual level of giving that keeps our doors open to the public as a National Historic Landmark

This summer, the National Governors Association conference will convene at Terrace Hill. In effect, the eyes of the nation will once again be focused on Terrace Hill as a symbol of the state. Meanwhile, there are urgent repairs and preparations that must be addressed to make a respectable presentation for Iowa. The short version of the “company is coming” to-do list includes patching the roof, replacing tattered linens, acquiring matching silverware, planting garden annuals, and doing restoration painting. For now, all needs are on hold for lack of funds.

Beyond these immediate needs, there is a greater vision: to create an Endowment Fund for Terrace Hill. Long term, monies earning return on investment will be the best legacy for donors who share a vision of Terrace Hill far into the future. It is our goal that the Endowment Fund be established in 2005. Those seeking a permanent role in the future of history should contact the development office at 515-280-3980 or e-mail TerraceHillFDTN@aol.com.

Because the Endowment Fund is little more than a twinkle in our eyes at this point and because it takes critical mass to produce adequate return on such a fund we must address immediate needs immediately.

I urge everyone reading this to join me in sending a tax-deductible donation today to the Terrace Hill Foundation at 2300 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50312. Just as Iowas official governors residence was built one brick at a time, your generous gift will help secure a solid future for Terrace Hill.

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