Giving Frequently Asked Questions
WHY DOES THE SCHOOL ASK US FOR CONTRIBUTIONS IN ADDITION TO WHAT WE ALREADY SEND TO THE SCHOOL IN TUITION AND FEES?
Tuition does not cover the total cost to educate your child. Charitable gifts raised in support of the Annual Fund and Auction are designed to bridge the gap between actual tuition income and actual operating costs of the school.
WHY DOESN’T THE SCHOOL CHARGE ENOUGH TO COVER OPERATING COSTS?
Southwest Christian School strives to maintain tuition at a level that enables families of every socio-economic level the ability to provide a Christian education for their child while continuing to provide academic excellence.
WHAT ARE THE SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL YEARLY GIVING OPPORTUNITIES?
There are many opportunities to support SCS, however the Annual Fund is the major fundraising opportunity of the year and is vital to the annual operating budget. While the SCS Board of Trustees strives to maintain tuition at a reasonable level, three percent of the operating buget is raised through Annual Fund contributions. The Annual Fund drive is held during the months of October, November, and December. Gifts pledged to the Annual Fund are tax deductible. Another important giving opportunity is through support of the auction held in April. Funds contributed to the auction are tax deductible over fair market value.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANNUAL FUND AND CAPITAL CAMPAIGN?
Annual Fund is design to offset annual operating expenses. Gifts pledged to the Annual Fund are generally payable at the end of the academic year. Capital campaign drives are conducted to provide significant funds for construction, renovations, or extensive equipment purchases. Contributions made to a capital campaign are generally pledged over three to five years.
WOULD WE BE EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE TO BOTH THE ANNUAL FUND AND CAPITAL CAMPAIGN?
We hope all parents, grandparents, and friends prayerfully consider supporting both fundraising efforts to the best of their ability.
CAN WE MAKE A GIFT TO A SPECIFIC PURPOSE?
While the Annual Fund seeks unrestricted gifts, if there is a project you are interested in supporting, please let us know. Please view “Ways to Support SCS” for a list of the many ways you can support SCS.
DOES SCS APPROACH FOUNDATIONS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT THE SCHOOL?
Yes, SCS development efforts include approaching area foundations and local businesses. Many foundations are interested in the initial support received from family, friends, Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff. SCS challenges our family and friends to prayerfully consider support of the Annual Fund. It is our desire to have the largest percentage of family and friends participation when foundations are approached.
MAY WE MAKE A CONTRIBUTION OF SOMETHING OTHER THAN CASH?
Yes, there are many ways to support SCS. Please view the “Ways to Support SCS” page located on the Advancement website for a listing of the many ways you can support SCS.
CAN WE MAKE OF GIFT ANONYMOUSLY?
Yes, when you make your contribution, please note that you would like to be anonymous and we will be happy to honor your request.
MY COMPANY OFFERS A MATCHING GIFT PROGRAM. WOULD THE SCHOOL BE INTERESTED IN THIS PROGRAM?
Yes, matching gifts are an easy way to double your contribution to the school. Please let us know if your company offers this program.
HOW MUCH HAVE OTHERS GIVEN?
The only gift too small is no gift at all. Previous donors have provided for our current student population and current donors will provide for future generations.
IS OUR GIFT TAX-DEDUCTIBLE?
All contributions are fully tax-deductible to the extent of the law.