SPED Forms Non-Profit Piping Design Foundation for Wider Public Outreach
February 20, 2023, Houston, TX: A new tax-exempt organization, the SPED Piping Design Foundation, has been formed. The foundation was established to “further the art and science of piping design and educate the public on its principles and practices.” The foundation has received approval as a tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization, which is reserved for non-profit organizations benefiting the public at large. In contrast, the Society of Piping Engineers and Designers (SPED) is a 501(c)6 organization, a non-profit existing for the benefit of its members. As a result, donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible for most taxpayers.
The foundation has been a dream of many in SPED, most notably, Kerry Millen, current SPED Board Member and Past President and Past Treasurer. “We’ve long needed this foundation to address accreditation and other educational programs for students at colleges and universities,” said Kerry. “A 501(c)3 organization can accept grants and donations to fund these important outreach needs.”
The need for the foundation became clearer after a series of outreach events in 2022, in Egypt, Spain, Canada, South Africa and Indonesia. Many university programs there need start-up support for training to faculty and local graduates. SPED membership and course fees are not sufficient to fund major outreach programs. Special attention will be given to countries requiring local content of engineering services. Corporate donations are needed for these initiatives.
Programs planned for the new foundation are:
• New graduate training,
• Train-the Trainer training,
• Training Program Accreditation,
• Curriculum Content Grants, etc.
Our first financial contribution is from Dr. William Beazley, former longtime SPED Executive Director, current board member and SPED ambassador in the amount of US$6212. Thank you sir!
Support is welcome from all individuals and organizations.
For more information, contact:
Catherine V.D. Walt - Executive Director
SPED Piping Design Foundation