As the first half of this school year concludes, we want to bring you up to date on the Annual Fund. Over 320 gifts or pledges have been recorded thus far, and the Annual Fund is approximately halfway to its 2009-2010 goal of $440,000. The Annual Fund directly supports the people and programs at Brookstone School, from faculty salaries to financial aid, from computers to classroom materials and much more. The Annual Fund brings all of the Brookstone community together-parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff and friends of the school to demonstrate their commitment to the continued success of the Brookstone experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Annual Fund
Q. What about tuition?
A. While tuition represents a good portion of Brookstone's annual budget, it does not cover the entire cost of an education. Tuition only covers about two-thirds of the expense and additional funding must come from the Annual Fund, endowment and other sources. Thanks to thoughtful and responsible stewardship, Brookstone remains strong, even in these challenging economic times. However, given the rising costs and shrinking investments, the gap continues to grow. We need your support to bridge this gap, helping us to maintain the quality of our programs while keeping the Brookstone experience strong for current and future generations.
Q. What about endowment?
A. Thanks to the generosity of many benefactors, we do have endowment support, but much of this income is restricted to specific purposes and cannot be used to meet the day-to-day needs of the school.
Q. If I cannot make a large donation, should I still give?
A. Definitely, YES! Every gift to the Annual Fund makes a tangible difference to the school, no matter the size of the gift. Participation is a key element in showing that you support the good work of Brookstone and its people and programs. If we all give a little, collectively, we gain a lot!
Q. What is the goal for the 2009-2010 Annual Fund?
A. Our goal for this fiscal year is $440,000 and with help from the entire Brookstone community, we are confident that we can meet this goal by June 30, 2010. We also have a challenge by a generous donor who will match your gifts dollar for dollar after we attain last year's total of $425,051. We have the opportunity to raise an additional $100,000 through this very generous match.
Q. Can my gift be matched by my company?
A. Yes, many companies will match their employee's gifts, thus increasing your donation to the school. Contact your HR department to see if your company has a matching program in place.
Q. How do I make my donation?
A. There are a number of ways to make a donation—online or directly by check or credit card. You can request information or a reply envelope from Nancy Burgin, Annual Fund Coordinator, at the school or just mail your check, made out to Brookstone School- Annual Fund and send it to 440 Bradley Park Drive, Columbus, Georgia 31904. You may also go online to www.brookstoneschool.org to make your secure contribution. For further information, call (706) 324-1392 ext. 1126.
Why should you give? It's about supporting the Brookstone Experience-what it was for alumni and friends, what it is for our current students, and what it will be for future students and graduates. Help us "Bridge the Gap" to provide the best education possible for our students.
Click to download a pledge card.
