The 2016-17 school year has been such fun so far and the collective support of our families, staff, and community partners has been tremendous. By now you may have received a letter in the mail about our Annual Fund Campaign. We are especially thankful for the response thus far to our very first annual fund. As we continue our mission in the 2016-2017 school year of providing a quality Catholic education for all who seek one, we ask that, if you haven’t already, please consider a gift to the 2016-17 Monsignor Clarke Annual Fund.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why does MCS need an Annual Fund Campaign?
Your child(ren) is/are the direct beneficiary(ies) of a high quality catholic education, the cost of which is not fully covered by school tuition. Tuition and fees only cover 85% of the full cost to educate a child here at MCS. In order to keep tuition affordable, our school relies on diocesan and parish subsidies, parent-led fundraising programs and the efforts of our development director, who is responsible for everything associated with the annual fund, major fund raising, corporate sponsorships, philanthropic gifts, and grants.
2. What is the goal of the Annual Fund Campaign and how will the gifts be used?
Our budget goal is to raise unrestricted cash gifts from donors to meet needs that benefit our students and programs, 100% parent participation and increased support from the rest of our community is what we are working toward. All gifts received will be used for the following expenses in the coming 12 months such as: (a) Increasing Tuition Assistance (b) Expanding programs such as outdoor classroom, chromebooks for all students and expanding visual & performing arts programs (c) Providing much needed bussing for sports programs and enrichment.
3.
Who participates in the Annual Fund Campaign?
Donors include school families, friends, grandparents, alumni, alumni parents, faculty/staff and parishioners.
4. Can my Annual Fund gift be matched by my employer and/or United Way?
Yes, many employers offer matching gift programs. Please take the time to determine whether your employer offers such a program- -it could serve to double your donation! For information regarding your employer's matching gifts policy, please contact your company’s Human Resource office. United Way contributions can also be directed to Monsignor Clarke School.
6. Can I charge my gift, or have donations automatically deducted from my checking or savings account?
Yes to both! Secure Online giving options can be found on our website
Click Here. Msgr. Clarke School is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit and all gifts are tax deductible.
7. Can I pledge now and make payments over time?
Of course! Make a pledge to the Annual Fund and take up to 12 months to pay it off – make payments monthly or quarterly. Pay by check or online.
8. How Much Should I Give?
The gift you give is highly personal and depends on your family’s individual circumstances. Whether you give because the needs noted above resonate with you, or simply to support a school you have come to love, we ask that members of our community participate in giving to the best of their ability.
Pledging a gift of Time, Talent or Prayer is just as meaningful toward reaching our goal of 100% participation.
Modeling healthy philanthropic habits is important for our children, and we hope you’ll keep Msgr. Clarke at the top of your philanthropic priority list. Gifts of all sizes will be gratefully received, well-utilized and acknowledged in the Annual Report
unless the donor makes a specific request to remain anonymous.
Gifts are recognized as part of the following giving clubs:
Founders - $5000+
Visionary – $1000-4,999
Circle of Saints – $500-$999
Circle of Angels – $100-$499
Friends Circle – $1 to $99
Monsignor Clarke School is a very special place. Our daily activities are firmly rooted in the traditions of our Catholic faith, daily prayer, and the celebration of the sacraments, living the Gospel values, and providing service to others.
Please join us and help us reach 100% participation from the entire school community! Every gift counts!
God Bless,
Dr. F
