What is the Annual Fund program and why is it important for parents to contribute to it?
Westerly, like most independent schools, relies on income other than tuition to fully support its programs and faculty. Westerly does not receive any state or federal government funding. Tuition alone does not cover the cost provide our students with the commendable educational program. Westerly will need to raise the difference through the Annual Fund and the Annual Auction. Since contributions are applied to the operating budget in the year that they are requested, Westerly depends on donors to support the Annual Fund every year. A gift to Westerly School is a gift to your child’s education and growth and to the future of a whole generation of children.
What does the Annual Fund Support?
The Annual Fund supports our expanding programs in academics, athletics and the arts. It also allows Westerly to recruit and retain the best faculty and provide professional development opportunities for teachers, and facilities enhancements.
What is the relationship between tuition and the Annual Fund?
Every effort is made to keep tuition affordable and competitive with schools with the same high standards as Westerly. The Board of Trustees approves a budget that relies on philanthropic support as one way to keep tuition as affordable as possible. Further, philanthropic contributions provide an opportunity for donors to receive tax benefits while also supporting the school. Tuition covers about 70% of the school budget. Annual Giving contributes a critically needed portion of the remainder. A 30% increase in tuition (the difference between tuition and actual costs) would seriously limit the number of qualified and deserving students who could afford to attend. Although tuition increases do occur, they do not equate to increases in the cost of doing business. And, unlike tuition, Annual Fund contributions are 100% tax deductible.
What is the goal of the Annual Fund?
The goal for the Annual Fund changes slightly each year depending on the operating budget. Generally, the Goal ranges from $150,000 - $170, 000.
The success of the Annual Fund relies not only on the financial goal, but also the more ambitious goal of achieving 100% participation.
Why is participation so important?
A gift to the Annual Fund is the most effective and direct way you can contribute to Westerly.
The Annual Fund supports the very things that provide a superior academic and social environment for our students. Paying tuition gives our students access to all of this. Charitable gifts are necessary to help sustain and expand it. Every student benefits from the Annual Fund.
It is also important that we show support from within before we go to outside sources for contributions. Participation in the Annual Fund demonstrates to others that we support our mission and goals.
Participation is very significant to our success. Every gift, no matter the amount, is greatly appreciated and important to our success.
Why not just cut expenses?
The Board of Trustees’ review of the operating expenses indicates that Westerly is already being run as a “lean” organization. We do a great deal with relatively modest resources. Most of the tuition revenue goes towards salaries, benefits, and fixed costs such as utilities and basic maintenance. Since the school’s strength lies in its extensive programs, small class size, and close personal relationships, any reductions would compromise the mission of the school.
How does giving to the Annual Fund benefit me?
Your gift is a direct investment in your child(ren). Because Westerly is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, your gift to the Annual Fund is 100% tax deductible. Think of how few opportunities there are to make a charitable gift that directly benefits your own children. You will be able to see the benefits of your gift every day as your child develops and grows.
How much should I give?
We ask that you give proportionately, consistently, unconditionally and unselfishly. In the past, individual gifts have ranged from $5 to $15,000. While leadership gifts of $3,500 are crucial to the financial stability of the school, gifts of all sizes make a difference. All gifts send a message to members of the Westerly community and to outside funding sources that those who benefit most from Westerly support it. Corporate and outside donors invariably want to know if the parents, alumni and grandparents support the school.
Are families receiving financial assistance expected to participate?
Yes. Gifts commensurate with each family's financial means are welcome and honored.
I would be able to give more if I could spread my payments over several months. Is there a payment plan?
There are some options available which are evaluated on a case by case basis. See the Advancement Office for specific details.
Does it matter when I make a contribution?
Yes! A gift or pledge made early in the school year is a great advantage to the school because it allows us to know how much money will be available to support the budget. Because of this, we ask donors to make pledges by December 31st, but gifts may be paid through June 1st. Once you have made your annual gift or pledge, you will not receive another Annual Fund solicitation until the next school year.
How Can I Give?
You may write a check payable to Westerly School for the entire amount or you may make a pledge to be paid in full by June 1st. You can also make your contribution by MasterCard or Visa or online through Pay Pal here.
