All About Our Annual Giving Programme
Why does Trafalgar Castle School need an Annual Giving Programme?
Trafalgar Castle School is a not-for-profit well-established independent day and boarding school, educating university-bound young women in a small school environment that supports and challenges each individual to achieve her full potential in all aspects of their life. We are not “owned”, nor does anyone, other than the students, profit from tuition. Trafalgar Castle School does not receive, nor is it eligible to receive, government funding.
As an independent school, we are truly self-supporting. While tuition fees cover the basic cost of educating our students, it alone cannot provide the many programme enhancements and curriculum enrichments that are an integral part of the Trafalgar experience. Indeed, it is those programmes and the small school environment that sets Trafalgar Castle School apart from other independent girls’ schools. Trafalgar Castle School relies on additional financial support in order to enhance our position as of one Canada’s leading academic institutions for young women.
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Do all independent schools have Annual Giving Programmes?
Every great independent school across Canada and internationally relies on the financial support of their community to maintain the high calibre of education that we have come to expect and associate with institutions such as Trafalgar Castle School.
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What is the Annual Giving Programme?
The Annual Giving Programme is the cornerstone and the foundation upon which each of our fundraising efforts rests. The Programme generates revenue to be disbursed annually, providing vital support for core activities, programme enrichment and school development. It provides for the extra margin of excellence over and above that afforded by tuition.
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Why is the Annual Giving Programme important?
The Annual Giving Programme is the most inclusive fundraising programme we have. This appeal looks for support from alumnae, parents, students, faculty, staff and Board members. While the Annual Giving Programme will not replace potential Capital Campaigns, it relieves the burden of fundraising primarily from special events and provides the funds necessary for the programme enhancements and small capital projects needed to maintain Trafalgar Castle School’s level of excellence in education.
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How much should I/we give?
Each and every gift is important and directly impacts the lives of our students. The size of your gift is a personal decision and is different for each individual or family. We would encourage you to give to the best of your ability. We have received gifts ranging from $20 to $7,000.
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Is Trafalgar Castle School’s Annual Giving Programme different from that of other independent schools?
Yes. At many independent schools, Annual Giving Programme dollars are directed to the operating budget to offset the gap between the actual cost of educating each student and the revenues generated by tuition fees. Gifts to the Annual Giving Programme are used for programme and curriculum enhancement and for small capital projects. The Programme is not used as a means of balancing the school’s budget, as Trafalgar Castle School is committed to prudent fiscal management.
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Does my/our participation really matter?
Absolutely! Participation is crucial to the on-going success of the Annual Giving Programme. When we approach foundations for support, it is essential that we already have demonstrated support from our own constituents. We are counting on your support and support from each member of the Trafalgar Castle School community.
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When do I/we have to send in my/our donation for this year’s Annual Giving Programme?
This year’s Annual Giving Programme closes June 30, 2008. Charitable donation receipts will be issued for all gifts. Gifts can be made:
· By mailing in cheque(s) current or post-dated no later than June 30, 2008
· By VISA, current or post-dated by mail or phone.
Trafalgar Castle School also accepts gifts of stock and appreciated securities, which offer additional tax benefits. Donors should contact the Development Office for further information
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Why should I/we donate?
Quite simply, you can make a difference.
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Why not use 'voluntary billing'?
Many schools in Canada use what is termed a ‘voluntary billing’ added to the normal tuition fee statement. This method is primarily used among schools with very high participation rates. We believe that in order to foster and develop a philanthropic culture for our students and community, the Annual Giving Programme should provide each individual the opportunity to “give back” and support the school in a personal and meaningful way.
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