Annual Fund - Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Annual Fund?

Annual Giving is the financial lifeblood of any school. Gifts made to the fund are generally unrestricted and are used by the school where they are needed most in supporting the school’s day-to-day operations. Academic programs, faculty development, scholarships, technology, library resources and new initiatives are a few of the areas where gifts may be applied.

Why is an Annual Fund necessary?

St. Mary’s needs your support. Gifts from you and others bridge the gap between what the school receives in tuition and what it costs to educate each student. Receiving an annual gift from you helps the school absorb unexpected increases and to make needed improvements throughout the school.

Who is being asked?

All constituencies are being asked to make an annual gift: trustees, alumni, parents, parishioners and friends.

What are matching gifts?

Matching gifts are gifts that an employer will give annually to an educational institution as an employee benefit by matching the amount of a gift made by an employee. For example, a gift of $250 from a donor matched by their employer on a 1:1 basis would provide for an additional $250 contribution and will credit the donor with a $500 gift to St. Mary’s. Ask your employer whether they have a matching gift program.

What is a giving level?

Giving levels provide an opportunity for all donors to be recognized and acknowledged at the level of their generosity to St. Mary’s.

Does my contribution really matter?

Yes, every individual gift helps provide needed resources to the school contributing to a quality education for the students of St. Mary School.