Centennial Campaign FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about the AIISF Centennial Campaign

What is the Centennial Wall?
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the opening of the US Immigration Station, Angel Island, the Centennial Wall is a way to honor immigrants and help Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation and Angel Island State Park tell the stories of those who have passed through Angel Island.

What are the purposes of the funds raised?
Funds will be used to develop a new interactive, multimedia exhibit, “Immigrant Voices,” which will be located on our website and at the Immigration Station, and to support the park and the work of the foundation.

Where will the wall be located?
It will be located on the grounds of the immigration station on Angel Island, close to the shores of San Francisco Bay, not far from the historic bell (see photo).

Whom can I honor?
You can honor anyone you wish; we encourage people to honor family and friends who have immigrated to the United States, including those who have passed through Angel Island. We encourage families to pool their resources where possible.

What form will the recognition take?
Names of immigrants as well as those who are recognizing them will be engraved onto granite plaques, which will be permanently installed on the Centennial Wall. The size of the plaques will vary depending on the size of the contribution. Please see the attached brochure linked here for further details.

Can I include names in their original languages?
Yes. We will typeset immigrant names in the appropriate languages if you request. All donors will be able to review a draft plaque for your approval before final fabrication.

How much does it cost?
The donation for the plaques starts at $2,500 and goes up to $50,000. Donors will also be listed on our website for at least two years in the immigration station buildings.

Is there a way to recognize donors with a smaller donation?
Yes. Family and friends recognized by donors of $100 and above will be recognized on our website and for at least two years at the immigration station.

Are contributions tax-deductible?
Yes.

How many spaces are available?
We have spaces for up to 300 donors, depending on the size of donations we receive.

Can I make a commitment before I receive all the contributions?
Yes – please contact our office to reserve a space.

Can I make contributions through installments?
Yes. Please contact us at the phone number or email address below. All contributions should be submitted to AIISF by December 31, 2010.

Can I make contributions of stock or other assets?
Yes. Please contact AIISF for more details.

When will the Centennial Wall be complete?
We expect that all names will be listed on the wall by the fall of 2011.

When will the Immigrant Voices exhibit be on display?
We expect the online exhibit to be launched by late 2010. The on-site exhibit will be installed by late 2011.

How long does this campaign run?
The campaign runs from now until December 31, 2010.

Where I can I get more information?
Visit www.aiisf.org/campaign.

Whom can I contact if I have further questions?
Grant Din, Director of Special Projects, at 415 262.4433, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .