Annual Fund

SPC ANNUAL FUND

This year, SPC is introducing the first Annual Fund Campaign. The primary purpose of an annual fund is to provide the necessary dollars to bridge the gap and control tuition increases. The Annual Fund will eventually become our most critical source of philanthropic support and will impact almost everything at SPC. It will have a direct impact on our students and faculty. It will enable students in need of financial aid to attend SPC; it will help bridge the $475 gap that exists between tuition and what it actually costs to educate each and every student; and it will provide the school flexibility to absorb unexpected costs and maintenance throughout the year.

Questions and Answers about the Annual Fund

Q: How much should I donate to the Annual Fund?

A:  While it is important to keep in mind there is a $475 gap per child between tuition and the actual cost of education, a gift of any amount is encouraged and appreciated!  Annual fund gifts will range in size from under $10 to over $5,000.  

Whether you are a school parent, grandparent, former SPC school parent, alum, faithful Catholic school believer, or faithful Mass attendee, we appreciate your support! No gift is too small or too large. Whatever amount you determine is right for you and your family to give, please know you will make a difference.

Q: I want to make a sizeable contribution. Is it possible to spread it out over time?

A: To make a donation that spreads over several months, we ask that you fill out the Annual Fund Pledge Form, including on it the total amount you wish to donate for this year and the increments in which you wish to make your donation. Or, you may donate your gift directly online by clicking here. Payment options include check, MasterCard, Visa, or American Express. We can also send reminders at intervals that work best for you.

Q: Will I receive a tax benefit from my donation?

A: Yes. St. Paul of the Cross School is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation under the laws of the United States. No goods or services will be received in exchange for your gift, so it will be tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Written recognition of your gift will be provided for tax purposes. (Note that the amount donated is tax-deductible in the year in which it is deposited by St. Paul of the Cross School.)

Q: Is there anything I can do to encourage my employer to contribute to the school?

A: Yes. Many employers offer matching gift programs. In some cases, gifts from spouses, directors, and retired employees will be matched as well. Please take the time to determine whether your employer offers such a program – it could serve to double or triple your donation! Do not hesitate to ask the school for whatever documentation you might need in order to facilitate a matching gift.

Q: Is it possible to make a memorial or “in honor of” gift?

A: Memorial gifts – a gift in memory of someone you loved or admired – is a particularly meaningful way to contribute to SPC’s Annual Fund. "In honor of” gifts for all occasions (a student's birthday or parents' anniversary, for example) are also lasting tributes that you can designate to one of the vital areas of need.

Q: What other options are available for supporting SPC?

A: There are many ways of supporting SPC. Some options are listed below:

1. Gifts of Securities: Gifts of appreciated securities can represent a two-fold tax saving opportunity because donors may avoid paying any capital gains tax on the increased value of the stock;
2. Planned Giving & Bequests: There are many ways you can help the school through planned giving-options include bequests, annuities, and trusts, to name just a few;
3. IRA Charitable Rollover: IRA owners beginning at age 70½ are permitted to make outright charitable gifts totaling up to $100,000 per year from their IRAs directly to eligible charities. The donor does not have to report the distribution as taxable income. Consult with your financial advisor for further information.
4. In-Kind Gifts: Certain types of in-kind gifts may be extremely useful to the school;
5. Building Outside Support for SPC: Spread the great word about St. Paul of the Cross School! Be an advocate for the school!
6. Volunteer: If you see a need that you can help fill, please don't hesitate to let us know.

If you have additional questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Mary Ploen, at 847-830-7637, or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We thank you for all that you continue to do for SPC and Catholic education.