What is an Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is an organized fundraising effort to obtain financial donation on a yearly basis to support the ICHS annual budget and general operations of the school.  These gifts bridge the gap between tuition and the actual cost of educating a student.  The Annual Fund enables ICHS to support the faculty in their pursuit of overall academic excellence for our students, invests in important new initiatives, and maintains and enhances the physical campus.

Why should I give to the Annual Fund?

This year, the actual cost of educating a student at ICHS is $9,320. Based on current tuition rates of $8,300 per student, we have entered our 2010-11 year needing to cover a shortfall of approximately $357,000.  Your gift not only provide ICHS with its most significant source to help close this tuition gap, but also allow us to continually enrich our curriculum, update our technology, further our faculty training and education, as well as maintain and enhance our facilities. As an unrestricted fund, the annual appeal provides our school with the flexibility to direct your contribution to the areas most in need.

Why is my donation so important?

In today’s economy every contribution, no matter the size, helps us get one step closer to our goal of providing quality Catholic education to all families.  With enrollment close to 350, we have seen consistent growth since 2006. And as the population of our school continues to grow, so does our need for enhancements to accommodate this increase.  In making a contribution to the ICHS Annual Fund, you will support these enhancements and send a strong message that you believe in our students and the mission of ICHS.

Why not just raise tuition, rather than ask for contributions?

At ICHS our goal is to help our young men and women make a positive difference in the world. Our family atmosphere, dedicated teaching staff and cooperative learning programs are just a few reasons why ICHS is the right fit for so many families in the surrounding communities.  Unfortunately, not all families have the financial means to cover the costs of tuition.  If we continue to raise our tuition, we would not be living out our mission, or adhering to our goal of keeping quality Catholic education affordable to all those who wish to attend ICHS.

Isn’t my support of our school’s other fundraisers enough?

The money generated through other fundraisers such as the Pancake Breakfast, Alumni Scholarship Golf Outing, NFL Football Raffle, and White Knight Society help to support specific activities and initiatives within the school and considered restricted giving. When you donate to these other fundraisers, you are designating the funds to support a specific area of the school, such as athletics or scholarships.  While these donations are appreciated, they do not cover the costs of general operations. Contributions from the Annual Fund are essential to covering these ancillary costs.

How may I contribute to the Annual Fund?

You can make your gift to the Annual Fund by pledging a specific amount on a yearly basis or through periodic installments.  You may write a check, donate cash or make a transfer of stock.  You may also have an employer who offers a matching gift program.  Some companies may even double or triple your gift, allowing you to make an even bigger impact with your contribution!

Is my contribution tax deductible?