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The SAME Foundation

Continuing an honored tradition of philanthropy

Founded in 1920, the Society of American Military Engineers, through the lasting contributions of its members, partners, and stakeholders, has played a critical role at every phase of progress in the engineering, architecture, and construction fields over the last century. With a vision to strengthen and expand our philanthropic efforts, the SAME Foundation was founded in 2016.

Our nation has a critical need . . . the SAME Foundation has a plan.

Inspiring High School and College Students to Pursue Engineering/STEM Careers

SAME’s Engineering & Construction Camps have an impressive record over 20 years of producing thousands of engineers and STEM leaders. We currently are supporting camps in seven locations and developing a program to help young members from the architecture/engineering/construction profession be able to serve as mentors. Additional investment is needed to grow these efforts that develop leaders for our profession, and our nation.

Realizing the Potential of our National Leader Development Program

To help develop America's next generation of world-class military, government civilian, and industry leaders, the SAME Foundation kicked off our national Leader Development Program in May 2019. Our inaugural class of participants from across SAME will develop leadership skills through coaching, training, service projects, and other independent and collaborative study. Additional investment is needed for year two and to expand the number of members in future years.

Preparing Veterans for Success in the A/E/C Profession

Our nation needs the leadership, work ethic, and selfless service of America’s veterans, in and out of uniform. The SAME Foundation is committed to helping veterans and active duty servicemembers become better qualified while they are in uniform, and for when they transition. They defend America; now let’s help them build it. Additional investment is needed for credentialing, education, and transition assistance to prepare veterans for success in the A/E/C profession.

Contribute to the SAME Foundation

In 2011, The Society of American Military Engineers (the "Society") established an Education and Mentoring Fund ("E&M Fund".)  The E&M Fund was established to promote the educational, professional development and mentoring goals of the Society. In conjunction with the 2020 Strategic Plan creation, the Society filed the necessary IRS paperwork to establish The Society of American Military Engineers Foundation ("Foundation") as a separate 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. The Foundation was established in spring 2016. 

The Foundation establishment creates a separation of the philanthropic objectives of the Society from the Society's day to day operations.  The Foundation will also provide a secure and beneficial repository for charitable and other bequeaths from members of the Society and the public at large.  Initially, the Foundation will accept the transfer of the Society's E&M Fund (approximately $900,000) and will continue to honor previous donor imposed restrictions.  The Foundation expects to grow rapidly through aggressive fundraising campaigns in the years prior to the SAME Centennial in 2020.

The primary purpose of the Foundation is to continue to promote the strategic goals of the Society and to support the development and growth of members and future members. Therefore, spending will include but is not limited to the following:

  • Funding member professional development and career advancement programs, including negotiating certification discounts, and then funding the programs

  • Providing stipends to fund member travel to SAME events

  • Supporting SAME Engineering & Construction Camps

  • Promoting STEM-related initiatives

  • Providing scholarships to students who are pursuing degrees in STEM-related fields

 

The SAME Foundation annual fund drive is underway, helping to foster engineering leadership for the nation.