Donations and Silent Key Consignments
For those with equipment, memorabilia or other items directly- or indirectly-related to amateur radio, the VWS is always willing to consider donations of such to the Club for its direct use or later sale by the Club for the benefit of its membership. As a nonprofit organization, the VWS will, on request, provide an appropriate record of the donation or contribution for tax purposes to the giving person or organization.
Recognizing the somewhat unique nature of amateur radio equipment and related gear, in the case of SKs (Silent Keys), the VWS is willing to provide guidance and perhaps assistance on an as-needed, labor-available basis, to help uninstall, dismantle, and remove equipment owned by the SK as a service to the family and/or estate. In those cases, an on-site visit is recommended before actual removal efforts to determine the scope and level of effort required. It will also be determined at that time if the intent of the family or estate, is to donate, or consign for sale any or all of such to the Club or simply for the Club to assist in the family or estate’s efforts to sell it directly.
VWS is also willing to consider providing assistance in the form of simple estimates on the approximate value* of such items in the event the family or estate wishes to sell such directly whether such is donated, or consignment to the Club or not.
Where the VWS agrees to assist in the removal of equipment and gear, the VWS will use due diligence and care to protect such as well as prevent or minimize damage to adjoining property, equipment, etc., not directly related to the amateur radio equipment; however, the VWS cannot and will not accept responsibility for any damages that are otherwise unavoidable in removal. Prior to any such effort, the VWS will advise the family or estate of the risk of collateral damage which might or could be incurred as well as the Club’s level of involvement. After consideration of such, the VWS, the family, or the estate may opt to not proceed. Such agreements and understandings shall be confirmed in writing (email is acceptable) as soon as possible and preferably before removal efforts begin.
The VWS also suggests that those becoming aware of any amateur radio operator who has become a SK, to consider taking the steps and actions described on the ARRL Silent Key Page http://www.arrl.org/silent-key-submission-guidelines
If you have questions or requests for assistance, please contact the VWS Consignment/ SK Committee at cc@viennawireless.net .
* It should be noted that any estimates of value should not be considered legally valid for tax purposes, since it is the responsibility of the donor to justify, if necessary, the value of donated property. The donor should consult with a tax professional before using such information for tax return purposes.