Annual Fund FAQ
Why am I asked to donate to Aspen Country Day School on top of paying tuition?
Tuition alone does not cover the full expense for a student to attend Aspen Country Day School. To balance its budget without raising tuition, Aspen Country Day School relies on the generosity of its community members. Annual Fund giving makes up the gap between expenses and the revenue from tuition and fees. This gap amounts to about $5,500 per student.
What does the Annual Fund support?
The Annual Fund directly enhances our students’ experience by providing critical support for the school’s annual operating budget in areas such as financial assistance, teaching excellence, and student enrichment.
Why not just raise tuition to balance the school’s budget?
Without the Annual Fund, tuition would be priced out of reach for many families. Many donors appreciate the opportunity to claim a tax deduction to the school, which is a 501(C)3 nonprofit. Gifts to the school are tax deductible, but tuition is not.
What are the giving levels?
Each gift is important and sends a message of strong support for the school and our students. Each family should make a gift that is meaningful to them. While their children are enrolled at Aspen Country Day, we do ask each family to make the school a philanthropic priority.\
Giving levels
*1969 Founders Circle
$100,000 +
*Head of School Circle
$50,000 +
*Castle Creek Circle
$25,000 +
*Ponds Circle
$15,000 +
*Blue Green Circle
$10,000 +
Benefactor
$5,000 +
Patron
$2,500 +
Donor
$1,000+
Friend:
up to $1,000
*Leadership Circle
What is the Leadership Circle?
All donors who contribute $10,000+ to the Annual Fund in a given year are considered part of the Leadership Circle. These leadership gifts go above and beyond bridging the gap of $5,500 per student; they ensure that the school can thrive. Recognition for Leadership Circle donors includes a framed photo of the family’s children or another token of appreciation, invitation to the spring gala, and special events throughout the year.
Which is the most important of the school’s fundraising initiatives?
Each donor should allocate their giving according their own philanthropic interests. However, each current family at Aspen Country Day is asked to make the Annual Fund their first gift to the school each year.
What is the goal for the Annual Fund?
100% participation from current families, with additional participation from grandparents, alumni, past parents, friends, and philanthropic foundations.
What are the different ways to make a gift?
Gifts can be made via cash, check, credit card, stock transfer, wire transfer, and EFT. Donor Advised Fund giving is easy and increasingly popular. Donors can pledge to give a specified amount by June 30 of the calendar year. Gifts may be made online any time at: www.aspencountryday.org/annual
What if I have more questions?
Please contact Carolyn Hines, Director of Advancement, 970-429-3844
