Free men, defined as those who understand [the principles of freedom], are the only ones who can rescue the indifferent and the docile from a growing serfdom. The burden is on them and them alone. The burden cannot be shared by anyone who is unaware.
–  Leonard E. Read


We appreciate your financial support. The Rio Grande Foundation (RGF), is New Mexico's premier public policy education and research center. Your contribution furthers our goals and helps us continue our work.

Click here to donate online by major credit card.

Click here to download our printable contribution form for mail in donations.

Because the Rio Grande Foundation has 501c (3) status, your donation is fully tax deductible. You will receive a letter acknowledging your contribution for tax purposes.

Questions about contributing? Please direct your inquiry by telephone to (505)286-2030 or by E-mail to Info@RioGrandeFoundation.org.

The Rio Grande Foundation offers four contribution levels allowing us to recognize our supporters appropriately:

Gadsden Society

Annual contribution level: $10,000 or higher

Includes: All the benefits of the Becknell Society plus:

  • Personal updates from the President of Rio Grande Foundation
  • A specially engraved "Gadsden Society" plaque
  • Exclusive invitations to all Rio Grande Foundation events
  • Invitations to dinners with VIPs and board members
  • Priority communication with the President and Chairman of the Board

Why the Gadsden Society?
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848) had described the U.S.-Mexico boundary vaguely, and President Franklin Pierce wanted to insure U.S. possession of the Mesilla Valley near the Rio Grande – the most practicable route for a southern railroad to the Pacific. James Gadsden negotiated the purchase, and the U.S. Senate ratified it in 1854 by a narrow margin. The area of approximately 30,000 square miles (77,700 square km), purchased for $10 million, now forms extreme Southern New Mexico and Arizona south of the Gila River.
Becknell Society

Annual contribution level: $5,000 to $9,999

Includes: All the benefits of the President's Council plus:

  • A personal meeting with the President of Rio Grande Foundation
  • A framed "Becknell Society" certificate
  • Invitations to exclusive legislative policy meetings

Why the Becknell Society?
William Becknell played an integral role in opening what became known as the Santa Fe Trail to trade. Becknell left Arrow Rock, Missouri in September of 1821 on his first trip to the western U.S. with a load of freight to deliver to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Becknell used wagons instead of pack mules or horses to take trade goods over the Santa Fe Trail. Because Becknell found a good mode of transportation and a passable wagon route, he is credited as the Father of the Santa Fe Trail. The Santa Fe Trail was the first and only international trade route between the U.S. and Mexico until a railway to Santa Fe was built in 1880.
President's Council

Annual contribution level: $1,000 to $4,999

Includes: All the benefits of membership plus:

  • Special updates on current issues and important topics
  • A framed "President's Council" certificate
  • Option to receive reports by E-mail
  • Priority seating for RGF events
Friend

Annual contribution level: $100 to $999 (students may enroll for $25)

Includes:

  • Subscription to the Rio Grande Foundation E-mail newsletter
  • Invitations to select events in your area