What is the Annual Fund?
The Annual Fund is the fundraising campaign conducted each year by the Development Office to benefit our children and their Teachers, programs and facilities here at FMSA. The Annual Fund mainly solicits parents, Trustees, Faculty & Staff, grandparents, alumni and alumni families.
Why is the Annual Fund so important to First Montessori School of Atlanta?
Tuition alone cannot maintain FMSA at the standard that we want for our children. The Annual Fund Campaign is the primary vehicle for providing the necessities which make First Montessori’s programs, faculty and facilities among the best inAtlantaand the nation. Contributions to the Annual Fund provide this much-needed funding every year to subsidize the true costs of FMSA’s programs and facilities. The funds raised go right back into the priority needs of the school.
Why should I support the Annual Fund?
We do not conduct “fundraisers of the week” at FMSA such as sales of wrapping paper, candy, popcorn, etc., which take a lot of parent time and involvement and aren’t nearly as profitable as an annual campaign. We rely on the Annual Fund campaign as a yearly commitment from families to the school.
What is the highest priority for the Annual Fund?
There are many developing needs at First Montessori. Increasing unrestricted giving to the Annual Fund is the highest priority. These gifts allow FMSA the flexibility to address the emerging needs in areas such as the Fine Arts, outdoor education, increasing financial aid, and giving FMSA the strength to pursue enhanced educational opportunities.
Why is 100% Parent Participation so important?
100% parent participation sends a very strong message. It means that parents care and support the good work of everyone at First Montessori. It shows their belief in our school. That belief is what foundations and corporations look for when they are evaluating grant proposals. FMSA will be submitting a number of proposals for funding and we need the strength of parent, Board and faculty participation in the Annual Fund behind it. Not only is it important to the school but parents are also instilling philanthropy in their children. It is yet another way for our parents to teach a very important and significant lesson to their children.
How will I be recognized?
FMSA is a 501(c)(3) corporation and your gift to the Annual Fund is tax deductible as described by law. You will receive a thank you letter with your gift information. Each gift, unless designated anonymous, will be listed in First Montessori’s Annual Report, published each year to recognize our generous donors, their levels of giving and the programs that are made possible through their gifts of love.
What’s the difference between the Annual Fund and the fundraising activities of IMPACT?
The Annual Fund is our main fundraising campaign to help provide the necessary funding to support our programs and facilities. Strong support of the Annual Fund by parents demonstrates to corporations and foundations their commitment thereby increasing our chances of receiving funding to support our school. IMPACT plans fundraising events to promote community spirit and provide social opportunities for parents while raising substantial funds for specified projects. The Annual Fund provides unrestricted gifts to the school while IMPACT fundraising proceeds generally go towards specific projects.