THE ALBERT JOHNSON MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUND
Created to sustain quality programming for the Joliet Rotary Club, members
encouraged to remember the club in estate plans.
To honor the rich tradition of Rotary, longtime member Albert Johnson bequeathed a generous donation to the Joliet Rotary Club in 1993. These funds were used to create the Albert Johnson Memorial Endowment Fund which is used to bring quality programming to our members and to preserve Joliet Rotary’s rich history. “Albert truly loved Rotary and he thought it was very important to maintain great programs,” said Past President Ed Dollinger. “Having this fund readily available has enabled the club to bring in diverse and interesting programs.” The donations totaled approximately $40,000 in 2003 and since then has grown through strategic investments and is now valued at approximately $65,000. Over the years, $28,000 has been disbursed to cover the cost of programs including the club’s 100th anniversary celebration, our annual youth leadership program, and fireside chats that help educate new members.
Johnson joined the Joliet Rotary Club in 1931 and worked as the general manager of the American Institute of Laundering. He served as the club’s vice president and chairman of the program committee. According to Bill Lauer, longtime Joliet Rotarian, that was a primary reason for Johnson’s gift to the Joliet club. “Albert thought the programs presented at our weekly meetings were one of the most important reasons to join Rotary,” Past President Bill Lauer said. “Albert said members in the Joliet Rotary Club could learn from one another and help strengthen their individual businesses.”
Dollinger said he remembers Johnson as a mentor, one who was happy to share the ideals of Rotary. “Albert would take young business people under his wing and coach and mentor them,” Dollinger said. “His goal was to help someone each day.”
Johnson was a longtime resident of Joliet with his wife Alice. His love and dedication for Rotary continues to be honored through this fund.
“We are very fortunate to continue to benefit from Albert’s generosity,” Lauer said. “I encourage any Rotarian to consider including the Joliet Rotary Club in their estate plans. Our members can be assured the funds will go to maintain the strength and vibrancy of our club.”
For more information or to make arrangements for a contribution, contact our Club President Mark Griglione or Club Treasurer Jeff Pierson.