 A Tradition of Giving
The Avery Coonley School fulfills its important
mission through a commitment to quality education,
the work of a dedicated faculty, and a respect
for traditions that help build a strong community.
Another key element in the school’s success
is generous charitable giving from alumni, parents,
grandparents, faculty, and friends. The tradition
of philanthropy started by Mrs. Coonley in the
early 1900’s continues to be a vital part
of the life of this independent school.
As members of the school community, alumni
are asked to join the many families who contribute
to the fundraising programs of the school. With
their commitment, the school will have the resources
needed to support our students as they fully
realize their potential.
For more information about the school’s
fundraising programs, contact Meg Howes, Director
of Development, at howemeg@averycoonley.org or
630/969-0900, ext. 105.
Giving Opportunities
The Alumni Annual Giving Fund
The Endowment Funds
The Annual Auction
Donor Recognition
The Alumni Annual Giving Fund
Each fall ACS alumni are asked to support
the Alumni Annual Giving Fund. With the support
of alumni, parents, grandparents and friends
the school is able to meet the annual challenge
of balancing ever-increasing operating needs
with annual operating revenues. Contributions
to the Alumni Annual Giving Fund will help fill
the margin between the approximately 85% of the
operating budget covered by tuition and a balanced
budget.
Gifts may be made by check or credit card,
or as a pledge payable over the course of the
school year. Families may also donate stocks,
bonds, or other securities. Applying to an employer
matching gift program may significantly increase
gifts.
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The Endowment Funds
What does it mean to support the enlightened
philanthropic vision of Queene Ferry Coonley
through gifts to the endowment? An independent
school should have an endowment that is at least
equal to the operating budget, which for ACS
would mean an endowment of $4 million today.
Currently, the school has $1.9 million in endowment
and reserves called “funds functioning
as endowment.” This level falls well below
the $4 million benchmark, and below many of the
school’s peer institutions.
With a strong endowment The Avery Coonley School
will be well positioned to address any rainy-day adversities posed by unexpected events or
temporary declines in enrollment. More importantly,
growth in endowment will mean increased annual
income to enhance academic programming as well
as to meet the expanding demands for funds for
financial aid, and professional development for
faculty. A healthy and growing endowment will
be central to securing the school’s financial
future.
The General Endowment Fund supports
a wide range of needs at the school. This fund
gives the administration flexibility in allocating
resources to meet current and future needs — both
operating and capital in nature. Since donations
to this fund are not restricted, the income earned
from this is of great value and could support
classroom and facility improvements, technological
enhancements, and academic programming, to name
just a few areas of continuing need.
The Faculty Endowment Fund provides
vital resources for the ongoing professional
development of the school’s faculty. Donations
to this fund represent a significant investment
in education at Avery Coonley by giving faculty
the opportunity to pursue engaging and challenging
experiences that will contribute to their professional
development. A healthy Faculty Endowment Fund
is a beacon for all to see that Avery Coonley
is committed to excellence in teaching and to
attracting and retaining faculty of the highest
quality.
The Financial Aid Endowment Fund supports
the school’s commitment to extend
access to qualified students of diverse socioeconomic
and racial backgrounds. ACS has a long-established
program of financial aid to support families
with academically qualified students who would
be unable to attend the school without assistance.
As tuition increases, the need for financial
aid grows. A strong endowment for financial aid
will ensure that Avery Coonley maintains its
commitment to diversity and its ability to attract
and enroll the most qualified students.
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The Annual Auction
The Annual Auction is held each spring to
raise funds for the school. Chaired by parent
volunteers, the event features a live auction,
basket boutique and multiple-choice raffle. All
alumni and school families are encouraged to
participate in this important and enjoyable celebration.
Through the generous commitment of volunteers
and donors to the auction, last year, more than
$350,000 was raised in support of the school’s
educational programs.
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Donor Recognition
All donors will be acknowledged for their support
in the school’s annual report. In addition,
a donor recognition plaque will be placed in
the school’s reception area to recognize
gifts of $1,000 or more.
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