York Annual Fund
The Annual Fund is York School’s most vital and basic fundraising effort. The school relies on unrestricted gifts to fund almost 20% of its operating budget. Annual Fund gifts support faculty excellence, an innovative curriculum, enriching arts and athletic programs, and campus maintenance.
Why does York ask for donations in addition to what parents pay in tuition?
York School charges less in tuition than its actual costs. In reality, every York student receives a subsidy each year. The school’s tuition revenue only covers 80% of the operating budget. The balance is made up each year with generous donations from people like you. Like all independent schools, colleges, and universities, York depends on the generosity of its parents, alumni, and friends for financial support every year.
Why not raise tuition and reduce the emphasis on fundraising?
One of York’s primary goals is to provide the highest quality education to any qualified student, regardless of economic background. If we raised tuition, many families would be unable to send their children here. Above all else, the diverse group of students makes this school extraordinary. They define this unique culture, and raising tuition would mean changing the student body. Without them, we wouldn’t be York.
What about grants from foundations and corporations? Why not ask them?
We do. We solicit foundations and corporations on a regular basis. Your annual gift sends a powerful message to corporations and foundations who view participation as a key gauge for awarding grants; York School is more likely to receive funding from outside sources if it can show strong support from our families.
We receive financial aid from York. Are we expected to participate as well?
On the surface it seems paradoxical to donate to a school that is offering you financial assistance. However, a broad level of participation in donations to the school makes our financial aid program possible. We don’t expect large donations from those with tight budgets, but their participation in giving inspires those who can keep our financial aid program strong. In fact, those who receive financial aid from York have a great incentive to give back.
How much should I give?
Whatever your circumstances, thoughtfully consider the influence of York on you and your family, and give as generously as you are able. Because York is a small school, the success of the Annual Fund depends on each and every one of us.
What level of gift qualifies me as a leadership donor?
Leadership gifts are vital to the success of our Annual Fund program. Our various giving circles include:
Leadership Circle$25,000 and above
Excellence Circle $10,000 to $24,999
Chairman's Circle $5,000 to $9,999
Head of School Circle $2,500 to $4,999
Peregrine Circle $1,000 to $2,499
Red and Black Circle $500 to $999
Does my gift have to be in cash?
Although gifts are usually in the form of checks or credit card payments, giving appreciated securities can be a tax-wise alternative. If you give appreciated stocks (held for at least a year), you can save taxes twice--take a charitable deduction for their full market value and save the capital gains you would incur if you sold them.
We welcome stock gifts, charitable remainder trusts, and planned gifts (gifts from individuals who have remembered York School in their will). Please contact Kristine Edmunds, Director of Advancement at 831.373.4438 x128, or kedmunds@york.org for details on the best way to make this type of gift.
How can I find out if my employer (or my spouse’s) matches gift to independent schools, thus doubling or tripling my gift to York?
Ask the personnel office if they have a matching gift program. They can provide the appropriate form to include with your gift. For additional questions, please contact Shirley Coly, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund at 831.373.4438 x151, or email scoly@york.org
