Our Story
The Mill Reef Fund (MRF) is a charitable trust that was founded in 1948, shortly after the Mill Reef Club was established. Its ability to help island residents depends on the generosity of members and friends of the Club, and your support has helped us raise and distribute more than US $14.5 million since we began keeping annual giving records in the 1960s. Thank you!
The philanthropic reach of the Mill Reef Fund extends far and wide across Antigua and Barbuda. We’ve provided major medical equipment for the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, partnered with Hands Across the Sea to install libraries in primary and secondary schools, and helped a home for severely handicapped children expand its facility and purchase essential equipment.
Donations also go to support restoration of Antigua’s historical sites and churches, and to assist the Red Cross, The Salvation Army, and other organizations with emergency relief after hurricanes, tropical storms, and earthquakes. These are just a few examples of the philanthropic work made possible by donations to the Fund.
Our Mission
Our mission is to improve the lives of Antiguans and Barbudans through donations to educational, medical and health, general welfare, and religious organizations.
Our Philosophy
We believe that investing in our community is the best way to show our gratitude and commitment to
island residents.
Governance
The Mill Reef Fund is governed by an eight-member Board of Trustees that serves as the fiduciary for the Fund and is charged with the careful stewardship of the Fund’s monies. Trustees’ due diligence includes selecting, evaluating, and reevaluating each of the organizations we fund, with periodic site visits and frequent conversations with organizations’ staff. Trustees are proprietary members of the Mill Reef Club who volunteer their time and receive no compensation.
Our Trustees:
- Helene van Beuren, Chair
- Fuller Cowles, Vice Chair
- Lucy Dayton, Secretary
- Helen Yeager, Treasurer
- Sana Brooks
- Melanie Letby
- Elizabeth Santini
- Wendy Shattuck
Donations from taxpayers in the United States are tax deductible under our 501(c)(3) designation and may be tax deductible for United Kingdom taxpayers under certain circumstances. An annual audit is prepared and Form 990 is filed annually with the IRS, along with a CHAR500 with the State of New York.