What is the Annual Fund?
Gifts to the Annual Fund are necessary to ensure that all students receive the best education possible. Faculty salaries and need-based financial aid for deserving students are the two areas receiving the majority of support from the Fund. However, ever aspect of the GPS program- from the classroom to the playing field- is impacted by contributions made to the Annual Fund. Each year the Board of Trustees sets a goal for the Annual Fund. It is imperative that this goal be met to ensure that we continue to offer the depth of programs tha tmake a GPS education outstanding.
Why Doesn't GPS Charge Enough to Cover Operating Costs?
Our commitment to remaining accessible to our families leads us to seek additional means to fund our operations. If tuition were increased to cover the actual cost of educating every student (an approximate addition of $4,000), may could not afford to send their daughters to GPS.
Is Giving to the Annual Fund Unique to GPS?
No. Most independent schools have an Annual Fund which supplements the operational costs of their programs. Supporting the GPS Annual Fund becomes a once-a-year gift as opposed to supporting numerous smll fundraining projects you may have experienced at your daughter's previous school.
What is the Difference Between Annual Giving and Capital Giving?
Annual Giving is designed to offset annual operating expenses; if the gift is pledged, it is paid by the end of the academic year. Capital gifts, on the other hand, provide funds for the renovation and construction of facilities, and additions to the school's endowment. Contributions are typically pledged over three to five years.
Can I Make a Gift for a Specific Purpose or to Support the Endowment?
Yes. If there is a specific project you would like to fund, please let us know. Capital efforts generally provide Named Gift Opportunities. The Endowment Fund secures GPS's long-term financial future and generates an important portion of the operating budget (approximately 5% is transferred annually). The principal of an endowed gift is preserved, and only a portion of the interest and earnings is used. Endowment gifts are professionally invested and managed to provide income in perpetuity for the school's operating budget, endowed scholarships, and faculty development.
May I Make a Deferred or Planned Gift?
Yes. GPS continues to benefit from the loyalty and generosity of the people whose lives it has touched and transformed. Your support makes the difference in securing the future of our school. Opportunities for planned giving include bequests, gifts of retirement assets or life insurance, charitable gift annuities, and remainder or lead trusts. Many donors include a Planned Gift when making an outright gift to the endowment for the purpose of enhancing the longevity of the gift.
What is the VISIONS Auction and Will I Be Asked to Participate?
VISIONS is a great community building activity held each February. It is a primary annual fundraising initiative for GPS. The funds raised during the auction make up a portion of annual support needed to meet the school's budget and contribute to a special project which meets a critical need for the school. We hope that you will choose to participate in and support VISIONS by attending the event, donating an item, providing a corporate sponsorship, and/or serving as a volunteer.
Would I Be Expected to Give to All Three Fundraising Initiatives?
While some of you may choose to support all these fundraising initiatives, others may choose to focus on only one or two. We encourage you to be involved with GPS at whatever giving level is confortable for you and your family.
Is There Any Chance That My Gift Could be Made Anonymously?
Yes. When you send in your contribution, be sure to let us know that you would like to remain anonymous. We will be happy to honor your request.
Can I Make a Memorial Gift or Honor a Special Individual, for Instance a Teacher?
Yes. We can discuss either of these options with you. The honoree or appropriate family member will be notified of the gift, if you wish.
My Company Offers a Matching Gifts Program. Would GPS be Interested in this Program?
Yes!!! Matching gifts are an easy way to double or, in some cases, triple your gift to GPS. You would need to complete the paperwork from your employer, send it with your gift to GPS, and we will process the gift.
Is My Gift Tax Deductible?
All contributions are fully tax deductible according to IRS guidelines. Please check with your tax advisor for details regarding your individual circumstances.
May I Volunteer My Time?
Yes!!! Volunteers are crucial to our success. Please contact the Office of Development (423- 634-7610) if you would like to vounteer or discuss other ways in which you may become involved.
GPS is fortunate to have a community of alumnae, parents, grandparents, parents of alumnae, and friends who believe in the value and quality of a GPS education. They demonstrate this support in many ways, but it is their philanthropic support that can have the most significant impact on the success of this school's programs. GPS, along with thousands of independent schools across the country, depend on the generosity of their constituents to ensure that an exceptional education is provided for the young women who attend this school.
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