Annual Fund FAQs

What is the Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is our institutional priority and one of the most powerful ways to sustain and enrich the Grace experience for all students. We ask the entire community — parents, alumni, alumni parents, grandparents, faculty and staff, and friends of the school — to participate. 
Funds raised are budgeted for in our annual operating expenses and provide immediately accessible dollars that have led to partnerships with leading cultural institutions; robust offerings in the arts and sports; the ability to attract top faculty and staff; and most of all, have allowed us to come back together. The Annual Fund gives GCS flexibility and ensures that we can continue to offer the magic of a Grace education to all students.

Is the Annual Fund the best way to support Grace?

In short, yes! The Annual Fund is our most important source of funding. The dollars raised are immediately accessible and unrestricted. This flexibility allows the school to act quickly as opportunities and needs arise, ensuring the most comprehensive educational experience for all students.
Tuition alone does not cover the full cost of educating each child and operating the school. Rather than raising tuition even more significantly, placing a Grace education out of reach for many, GCS asks the entire community to support the Annual Fund and close this gap.

Is supporting the Annual Fund different from supporting the Auction?

Yes. The Auction is an important fundraising event, proceeds from which benefit the Endowment for Financial Aid. The Annual Fund is a different pool of funds and makes up part of our annual operating budget. Donations to the Annual Fund support programming, campus enhancements, professional development, among others, and because they are unrestricted and immediately accessible, allow Grace to take advantage of opportunities as they arise. The Annual Fund benefits every member of the Grace community.

What does the Annual Fund support?

The Annual Fund supports all aspects of educating our students and running the school. This includes: 

  • Partnerships with leading cultural institutions
  • Enriching curriculum initiatives such as the Billion Oyster Project
  • Robust offerings in the arts, performance, and sports
  • Professional development opportunities for faculty and staff
  • Technology upgrades
  • Updating classrooms and facilities 
And so much more!

Are donations to the Annual Fund tax-deductible?

Yes, Grace Church School is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization under the Federal IRS code. All contributions are tax deductible. After donating, you will receive an acknowledgement letter stating your gift amount, date of gift, and a disclosure that no goods or services were provided.

How much should I give?

This is a community-wide effort and no gift is too small. The Annual Fund has a twofold goal: financial and participation. Every tax-deductible gift unites the community and shows belief in the mission, values, and future of Grace Church School.

How can I make my gift?

We offer many ways to make your tax-deductible gift. To learn more about your options, please click here. You can also contact the Advancement Office at 212-475-5609. Please note that the fiscal year ends on June 30th.

When should I make my gift?

Gifts to the 2021-2022 Annual Fund can be made until June 30, 2022. Because gifts to the Annual Fund are immediately accessible, early giving allows Grace the flexibility to adjust and take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.


 
 
© 2021 Grace Church School
Grace Church School is a co-educational independent school in downtown Manhattan, New York City providing instruction for nearly 800 students in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12.