The objective of the fund is to financially support projects, businesses, students, and charities that aim to protect the environment, promote healthy communities, and which hold the highest standard of moral accountability. It is through financing that the fund hopes to positively influence communities around the world.

The fund is named after Richard Pratt Seem, a WWII veteran and community leader who lived by example in such a way as to inspire, teach, and support all those who knew him. Richard Pratt Seem was born on April 20, 1915 in Elmira, New York. He graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1933 and received a B.S. in Economics from the Wharton School of Finance at University of Pennsylvania in 1937 where he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. Upon graduation, he began his 40-year career with the Star Gazette in Elmira, serving as retail advertising manager, business manager and controller and chief accountant. His belief in the freedom of speech and communication fueled his career. During World War II, Mr. Seem was the executive officer of an LST in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean and participated in the invasion of Southern France. He subsequently received the rank of Lieutenant Commander and commanded an LST ammunition ship in the Atlantic and Pacific. His ship carried occupation troops to Japan. In 1947, he was appointed by the U.S. Department of the Navy as Commander of the Local Naval Reserve Unit to be established in Elmira. He retired as Lieutenant Commander in the Naval Reserve in 1954.

Mr. Seem was always a helper of mankind. He gave much to the community throughout his years as President of the Community Chest, President of Rotary Club, President of Arctic League, a member of the Board of Directors of the YMCA, Board Treasurer and Advisory Council member of the Lend-A-Hand organization. Mr. Seem was named a Paul Harris Fellow for the Rotary Club and was a lifelong honorary member of the Rotary Club of Pontllanfraith, Wales. He was a recipient of the YMCA Layman's Award and the Elmira Kiwanis Club Layman's Award for his church and community activities. Mr. Seem was an Eagle Scout and a former counselor at Camp Seneca. He later became a member of the executive council of the Sullivan Trail Council, Boys Scouts of America. His scouting experience was one of the most rewarding experiences of his life and he took great pride in presenting his grandson, Chris, with the Eagle Scout Award in 1994.

During his life, Mr. Seem never lost faith in the goodness of people. He touched many lives because of his kindness and positive attitude. He was always a gentleman and a gentle man.

Donations to the fund can be made by sending a check or money order to:
The R.P. Seem World Betterment Fund
2648 East Jolly Acres Rd.
Whitehall, MD 21161

Or

Please make donations payable to: The R.P. Seem World Betterment Fund