Giving
Annual Fund
Aside from tuition, Hillside School depends on many forms of support. The following are some common questions about annual giving at Hillside:
What is the Annual Fund?
The Annual Fund is Hillside's yearly fundraising campaign to help supplement the cost of operating the school. Because tuition covers only about 85% of these costs, donations from parents, trustees, friends, DAR members and foundations offset many Hillside expenses.
Why should I give this year?
Gifts made between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008 will benefit our students' experience this school year! Scholarships, classroom supplies, athletic equipment, even this year's field trips will all be supported by the Annual Fund. Furthermore, while most of these gifts are tax deductible, you should confer with your tax advisor to see if you are eligible for this benefit.
Do I have the option of restricting my gift?
Yes! Annual Fund donors always have the choice of restricting their gift to a particular area of their choice. Interested in supporting the library, the tutorial program, or the Peace Initiative? Let us know and we will earmark your gift for a restricted fund.
How does the development office solicit Annual Fund gifts?
Several appeals to donors and friends will be sent during the year. Phone calls from development officers and Annual Fund committee members follow these appeals with requests for gifts or pledges.
Does my gift really make a difference?
YES! Every gift, of every amount, truly brings us closer to our goal. The support of donors and friends for the Annual Fund is especially important to Hillside when pursuing funding from foundations and corporations. Strong participation sends a message to potential funders that you believe in Hillside and, as such, increases our chances of receiving foundation or corporate support.
How can I make a gift?
It's easy. Simply click here to access our convenient online donation form. Of course, gifts of cash or check are always accepted as well. Gifts of securities are also welcome and can provide donors with added tax benefits (we suggest you speak with your tax advisor regarding gifts of securities). Please contact Chris Heaney, Director of the Annual Fund at 508-303-2046 for more information.
What Annual Fund donations can buy
- $10,000 - New furniture for the Allison/Taplin Family Student Lounge
- $5,000 - Send five faculty members to a NAIS (National Association of Independent Schools) professional development program
- $2,000 - Digital projector for classroom presentations
- $1,000 - New basketball net rims for the gym
- $500 - New board games for the houses and the Allison/Taplin Lounge
- $250 - Class field trip to a museum
- $100 - Computer software for the Peace Initiatives course
