Rochester Community Foundation Receives $2.73 Million Gift
The estate of former Strasenburgh Planetarium director Don Hall provides funds to boost historic preservation grants.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Rochester Area Community Foundation has received a $2.73 million bequest from the estate of the late Don Hall. The substantial donation is set to double the foundation's capacity for historic preservation grantmaking by 2027.
Why it matters
The gift fulfills Don Hall's goal of demonstrating that individuals can leave a significant philanthropic legacy regardless of their wealth. It provides a major boost to the ongoing preservation of local historic buildings and archives.
The foundation plans to double its historic preservation grant awards in 2027. This follows a 2026 cycle where 28 local nonprofits received support from the fund Hall established in 2006.
The players
Don Hall
He was the former director of the Strasenburgh Planetarium and a philanthropist who established a historic preservation fund.
Rochester Area Community Foundation
This philanthropic organization manages community funds and grants to support local nonprofit initiatives.
The details
The program supports projects that restore historic buildings and digitize historic materials throughout the area. Don Hall, who served as director of the Strasenburgh Planetarium, passed away in November 2025 at the age of 85.
Timeline
Don Hall established the historic preservation fund in 2006.
Don Hall died in November 2025 at age 85.
Twenty-eight local nonprofits received historic preservation grants in 2026.
An exhibit on the Henry Padron Morales papers opened at the Rush Rees Library last week.
Historic preservation grant awards are scheduled to double in 2027.
Market Landscape
This donation follows the pattern set by the 2006 establishment of the historic preservation fund. It significantly expands the financial capacity of the organization to meet the growing demand for local restoration projects.
Local nonprofits involved in architecture and history will see increased opportunities for project funding starting in 2027. Residents can expect to see more restored buildings and digitized historical resources in the coming years.
The takeaway
Hall's legacy highlights how long-term estate planning can create a lasting community impact. Residents interested in philanthropy can explore similar donation structures through the local community foundation.
What happens next
The Rochester Area Community Foundation will double its historic preservation grant awards in 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable initiatives in Rochester Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Esther Winter.
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