Frequently Asked Questions

What is an endowment?

Dana-Farber required $100,000 dollars be raised before "Reeling In a Dream" could be endowed. Once "endowed", the funds are invested allowing the fund to live on in perpetuity in Tim's memory. At the end of every fiscal year, the account can spend off whatever interest it has generated. It does not have access to the full funds at any given time, only the interest. "Reeling in a Dream" received it's official endowment status in June of 2008. As of October 2009, TRAC has proudly raised over $200,000 for Reeling in a Dream.

Why so many ipods, computers, etc. and not big trips?

Over a year period, the account can only spend what it generated in interest at the end of the previous fiscal year. This year, for example, "Reeling In a Dream" received $9000.00 in interest. That is what they have to spend on wishes for 2009. It is up to Dana Farber whether they want to spend it on one person or budget it over the year. They will usually choose to budget it over a year. The more money the fund raises, the more interest that will be generated. The fund does its best to honor the request of the recipient.

Who benefits from "Reeling In a Dream"?

The fund is set up through Dana Farber Cancer Institute. This is where Tim was treated and it was his request to help others there. This is also easier for us because they handle all the accounting, tax issues and choosing the recipients. Recipient must be a patient of the DCFI between the ages of 18 - 30 and not received a wish from another agency such as "Make A Wish Foundation".

How much of my donation goes to the fund?

There are NO administrative costs for "Reeling In a Dream". 100% of all money raised goes directly to the fund for patient care assistance. Money is raised on a local level and overseen by our TRAC (Timothy Roberts Advisory Committee) committee. They are friends and family who volunteer to help make Tim's dream become a reality.