Annual Fund FAQs

What is the Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund makes up part of Grace’s annual operating budget, closing the gap between tuition and the full cost of educating a student. All gifts go directly into day-to-day operations, enhancing our current offerings, funding special opportunities as they arise, and helping to ensure that the Grace community remains one in which everyone can find their place. We ask that you make the Annual Fund your highest priority when you consider your giving to Grace.

Who gives to the Annual Fund?

We ask the entire community—parents, alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, faculty and staff, and friends of the school—to participate.

When should I make my gift?

While many families choose to take advantage of a tax dedication and give before the end of the calendar year, you are welcome to make your gift at a time that works best for your family’s needs. If possible, please consider making your gift or pledge as early as possible. Because the Annual Fund is part of the school’s yearly operating budget, and donations are spent in the year that they are received, giving early enables Grace to take advantage of every opportunity throughout the school year. All gifts and pledge payments must be received by June 30.

What does the Annual Fund support?

The Annual Fund supports all aspects of educating our students and running the school day in and day out. This includes: 
  • Faculty and Staff: Providing a competitive compensation and benefits package to each faculty and staff member, ensuring that Grace continues to attract and retain the highest quality educators and staff members.   
  • Programmatic Needs: Ensuring that our curriculum remains open to innovation, funding classroom materials, field trips and professional development opportunities that enhance the curriculum, athletic equipment, funds for arts performances, cultural exchanges, and more.
  • Campus Maintenance and Security: Keeping up with the constant demands of maintaining and securing our two campuses.
  • Technology: Maintaining and updating the School’s equipment and software, so that we can be at the forefront of educational offerings.
  • Community Life: Offering a robust array of clubs, affinity groups, athletic teams, and guest performances and speakers; peer leadership programs; dining and library services; a House System in our high school; as well as other community-building and special activities throughout the year. 

How much should I give?

We hope that every member of our community understands the importance of the Annual Fund and will participate as generously as possible. Each year, gifts to the fund range in size from $5 to $100,000+. Regardless of the amount, each and every gift is important.

Does my participation in the Annual Fund really matter?

Absolutely! The Annual Fund has a twofold goal: financial and participation. Every gift demonstrates a commitment to each other and the mission and values of Grace. Additionally, high participation rates help Grace receive grants and make an impact for prospective members of the community.

I receive Financial Aid. Will giving to the Annual Fund count against me? Wouldn’t my gift just give the school back the money it gives my family?

Gifts to the Annual Fund do not affect financial aid packages. As a community effort, we ask every family to participate and welcome gifts of every and any size.

Are donations to the Annual Fund tax-deductible?

All contributions are tax deductible. Grace Church School is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization under the Federal IRS code.

How do I make a donation?

We offer many ways to make your tax-deductible gift to Grace.
 
Online
Please click here to make your gift online.
 
Check
Gifts can be sent via check to:

Grace Church School
Attn: Leah Rosenbaum
86 4th Avenue
New York, NY 10003
 
Stock and Wire Transfer
For stock and wire transfer instructions, please reach out to Leah Rosenbaum, Director of Annual Giving at (212) 475-5609 or via email at lrosenbaum@gcschool.org.
 
You may also contribute through a Donor Advised Fund/other foundation. Please contact the Advancement Office at (212) 475-5609 with any questions.

Can my employer match my gift to the Annual Fund?

Many employers will match donations to Grace. Please click here to find out if your employer participates. Matching gifts effectively double the amount of a donation; Grace credits the donor for both their personal gift and the matching contribution.

Can I make a pledge now and pay later?

Yes, on our giving page, you will see an option to make a pledge.
 
You can also set up monthly giving (or other intervals). This is a great way to make your Annual Fund gift in installments, and allows you to “set it and forget it.” For assistance, please contact the Advancement Office at (212) 475-5609.


 
 
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Grace Church School is a co-educational independent school in downtown Manhattan, New York City providing instruction for over 800 students in junior kindergarten through twelfth grade.