Westside's Annual Giving Campaign
Annual Giving Campaign 2011
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Annual Giving support? Donations to Annual Giving are immediately applied to the school’s current year operating budget to offset costs not covered by tuition income. This means that your gift to Annual Giving benefits every student, every day of the school year.
Why is Annual Giving important? Annual Giving helps to bridge the gap between tuition income and what it actually costs to fund our program. Almost all private schools charge less than the actual cost of Tuition. At Westside, tuition covers about 90% of our program expenses.
Why don’t we just charge the actual cost of Westside’s program? Even though Westside is an excellent value, especially when compared to other local independent schools with similar programs, many of our families have stretched financially to provide an independent school experience for their children. It’s important to us to offer an affordable education, that wouldn’t otherwise be an option for a number of families in our community.
Because of our fundraising efforts, we’re able to offer lower tuition and financial assistance, which makes it possible for more families to afford the rich educational experience of Westside.
What’s our goal? Our goal is 100% participation from our entire community – families, teachers, assistants, board, and administration. VERY FEW schools reach 100% participation – and we’ve done it in the past. This year, with so much to celebrate – our 30th birthday, sailing though our re-accreditation visit, the launch of our middle school and more, we’re shooting for 100% participation, and also asking our community to consider increasing their gift.
How much should I give? Participate at a level that’s appropriate for your family’s unique financial circumstances. EVERY gift, regardless of size, counts. Our financial goal is $140,000 – which is higher than past years, but if everyone gives a bit more, we’ll make our goal.
What’s a sustainer? A Sustainer pledges an Annual Giving donation of $500 or more, per child, per year at Westside School. A multi-year pledge shows long term commitment to Westside, and enables the school to plan financially for future years.
How can I make a contribution or pledge?
There are several options:
- Come to the Annual Giving Kick-off Friday, November 4th and make your donation or pledge.
- Complete the enclosed pledge form and return to the “Annual Giving” Box in the office, or send it by mail.
- Gifts may be made at one time or paid in installments throughout the balance of the school year.
- Note any special arrangements, for example, “I’ll pay in monthly installments by check,” or “I’ll pay my pledge in January.”
- Donate online at www.westsideschool.org, under the “Giving” tab, select “GIVE NOW.” Note any special payment arrangements (charge X amount monthly to my credit card, sign me up as a sustainer etc.)
- Please pay all pledges before the end of the school year.
Will my employer match my contribution? Westside School is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Most employers that have a matching gift program will match gifts to a non-profit school. Check with your employer to see if they’ll match your financial or volunteer donations.