Annual Fund

Click here to view our Annual Fund brochure.

As you consider a gift to the Annual Fund, here are some commonly asked questions about giving to Out-of-Door:

What is the Annual Fund?
The Annual Fund is our annual giving campaign that runs in conjunction with the school's fiscal year of July 1st through June 30th and supports our school's greatest needs. It is designed to bridge the gap between tuition and the actual cost of operating the school. Your contributions will cover these and other main areas of campus need: Academics, Arts, Athletics, and Technology.

Where does the money go?
The money donated to the Annual Fund is used within the fiscal year received and supports faculty salaries, program development and daily operational needs, such as the maintenance of facilities, classrooms, and equipment.

I paid tuition, shouldn't that cover everything?
As with 99% of all independent schools, and most colleges, tuition does not cover the true cost to educate your child. Therefore, your contribution is essential. This year, the cost per student is $1,000 more than tuition. The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) recommends that 10% of an independent school's budget should be fundraising revenue.

I am not in the position to make a large donation, does my gift even matter?
Each gift does make a difference for our students. The only gift that is too small is the one that is not made at all. Participation is important because foundations and other organizations from which Out-of-Door seeks grants inquire about the level of our parents' annual fund participation.

Do I need to send money right now?
You may make a pledge to the Annual Fund at any time. Our fiscal year runs from July 1st to June 30th. You have until June 30th, 2010, to pay on any pledge made to the 2009-10 Annual Fund.

We buy items at The Banyan Ball/Extravaganza, isn't that the same thing as giving to the Annual Fund?
Participating in The Banyan Ball/Extravaganza is very important, but is different from making a gift to the Annual Fund. Buying an item or purchasing a ticket to The Banyan Ball/Extravaganza is a quid pro quo transaction and is not 100% tax deductible.

What are the different giving levels?
Leadership Society
Founder's Circle - $20,000 and above
Out-of-Door Leaders - $15,000-$19,999
1924 Club - $10,000 - $14,999
Headmaster's Council - $5,000 - $9,999
Banyan Tree Society - $2,500 - $4,999

Donors who give at the Leadership Society level are invited to a special thank-you party in the spring.

Patron Society
Circle of Patrons- $1,000 - $2,499
Blue & White Associates - $500 - $999
Out-of-Door Supporters - $250 - $499
Friend of Out-of-Door - $249 or less

Make your pledge now to the Annual Fund!