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How do I make a gift to Browne?
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Thank you for asking! You can make a gift online or check out our Ways to Give section of the website to find out about the many ways you can support Browne.
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What is the Annual Fund?
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The Annual Fund is the cornerstone of all fundraising programs at Browne Academy. As an independent school, Browne does not receive any government funding, which means that tuition and generous charitable gifts are the primary sources of financial support. Participation in the Annual Fund is the most important way you can express your support for the school and your belief in the importance of a Browne education. We ask the entire Browne community to support the school by participating in the Annual Fund each year. The monies raised are spent in the year they are given, so they have immediate impact on the program. Your Annual Fund gift is tax-deductible and BENEFITS every student this year!
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Q
I already pay tuition so why should I make an additional gift to Browne?
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Your financial contributions to the Annual Fund support the people and programs that make Browne Academy the great school that it is: talented teachers, small classes, library and instructional resources, technology, and enriching arts and athletic programs. Your child’s education is financed by both your tuition and Annual Fund gifts. Charitable gifts are a critical part of every independent school’s healthy financial profile.
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If independent schools were run more like a big business, couldn’t they charge the full cost of educating a child and avoid having to ask for gifts?
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Browne Academy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit institution. Unlike a business whose goal is to make money, Browne Academy’s goal is to provide our students with the very best education possible. By nature, high-quality schools are labor-intensive and people-oriented. In order to provide the best programs and competitive compensation to our outstanding faculty, the Board continually evaluates and assesses tuition and fundraising initiatives. Unlike tuition, contributions to the Annual Fund are fully tax-deductible and allow each family to give at a meaningful level to which they are able.
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How much should I give to the Annual Fund and how much of a difference can my gift really make?
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Ideally, current families identify Browne Academy as one of their top philanthropic priorities and recognize that their contributions make an immediate significant impact on our program. Annual Fund gifts range from $10 to over $10,000. We encourage families to consider giving a leadership gift at the Greystone Society level with a gift of $1,000 or more if they are able. By giving at the Greystone level, families ensure that we raise the necessary additional funds for our students above and beyond what tuition covers to support our programs, faculty and students. Your gift at any level, when added to all of the other gifts received, has a large impact on our school. Your participation encourages others to give, helps the school receive foundation grants, and sends a message to our community that Browne Academy makes a difference. Every gift counts!
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When should I make my Annual Fund gift or pledge?
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The earlier we receive your gift, the earlier we can put it to work for all of our students. We encourage all families to make their pledges by December 31st though payments are accepted until June 1st.
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May I set up an installment plan to pay my pledge?
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Yes, we would be happy to work out a pledge payment plan that is convenient for you. It is a great way to make a larger gift to the school without having to write one big check. For example, you can make a gift of $500, but only pay $50 a month for ten months. We can set up monthly and quarterly plans for families. Please contact the Development Office at (703) 960-3000 ext. 1012 to set up a pledge payment plan.
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Is Browne Academy eligible for employer matching gifts?
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Yes! Please ask your employer about matching gift programs that support elementary schools. This is a great way to double your gift to Browne!