History
The AOCS was formed in 1909 by nine forward-thinking chemists. Over the next 90+ years, the AOCS has become the leading international forum for information exchange. More than 20 years ago, the AOCS Foundation was formed to actively raise money on behalf of the AOCS. The Foundation was charged with raising funds for specific initiatives, while receiving additional funds passively through the annual dues check-offs program.

Successes
The AOCS Foundation has successfully carried out fundraising initiatives to advance the AOCS mission. The AOCS Foundation promoted funding for modernization of the Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS, which has long been the global source for analytical integrity. This fund drive also established the Technical Director staff position.

The Foundation has raised significant amounts of money to provide modern facilities to serve the ever expanding, diverse programming needs of 12 technical Divisions, 10 geographic Sections covering four continents, and a member base representing more than 90 countries.
Most recently, the Foundation reached its fundraising goal of $300,000 to fully endow the Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship. An award and travel stipend is given to a student each year to advance his/her education.

Goals
The Foundation continually seeks funding for programs and products that will benefit the AOCS, its members, and the fats and oils industry. Currently, the Foundation has identified the following projects to support:
• Funding educational events in emerging regions of the world
• Funding improvements in electronic exchange of technical ideas and information
• Creation of an ongoing forum for the sharing of cutting-edge information
• Enhancement of environmental management issues of the industry

Many supporters of the AOCS and the Foundation have contributed their time, money and ideas. A contribution to the Foundation is truly an investment in the future of your profession and it's also an investment in your own future. Your donation will help create funds for project grants and we will consider proposals for international and regional programs. To provide support for these programs and services print a Donation Form or contact Amy Lydic by e-mail [amyl@aocs.org] or by mail at AOCS Foundation, P.O. Box 17190, Urbana, IL 61803-7190 USA; Phone: +1-217-359-2344; Fax: +1-217-351-8091.
Donations to the AOCS Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.