Giving

Annual Giving Campaign

The Annual Giving Campaign is the single most important fund raising activity for Mountain Laurel Waldorf School each year. – it covers the difference between tuition revenue and the ever-increasing costs of operating our School.

In addition to supporting general operations, the Annual Giving Campaign also supports important professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. Because Annual Giving contributions are not allocated to any specific expense, the funds raised provide a welcome supplement to tuition income and can be used by the school where and when needed – very helpful indeed!

Your tax-deductible gift to the Annual Giving Campaign also helps keep tuition more affordable for many families and ensures the continued vibrancy of Waldorf Education for our children. Thank You!

Annual Giving Donations

Annual Giving Campaign FAQs

What is the Annual Giving Campaign?

The Annual Giving Campaign is a yearly appeal to board members, parents, grandparents, alumni parents, alumni, faculty, staff, family, and friends for financial contributions to support the school’s operating expenses and tuition assistance program. This year, Mountain Laurel Waldorf School’s Annual Giving Campaign goal is $25,000.

Why is the Annual Giving Campaign necessary?

MLWS families already make a significant financial contribution to the school by paying tuition.
However, there is a gap between tuition income and MLWS’s annual operating budget. Mountain
Laurel is not alone in this; many Waldorf schools and independent schools ask their communities to
support them in this way. We are sustained by the collective generosity of parents, grandparents,
and friends who make tax-deductible gifts of all sizes, each year, through Annual Giving.

How does Mountain Laurel raise money besides the Annual Giving Campaign?

In addition to the Annual Giving Campaign, Mountain Laurel depends on fundraisers (including the
annual Winter Faire) and grants to raise money.

Why is participation important?

The school’s financial strength is dependent on the participation of all members of its constituency.
Your participation generates enthusiasm and encourages others to join in supporting the school,
and it is a key indicator to prospective foundation and corporate donors that we have consistent
support from those we serve, both past and present.

By way of example, the Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor received a grant notification letter from
the Waldorf Schools Fund President Gloria Kemp. She wrote: “It is indeed a pleasure to support an
initiative at schools where the enormous success of the Annual Fund Appeal speaks of the high
degree of commitment and support coming from the school community.”

How much should I give?

You are the only one who knows how much you are able to give. One hundred percent of Mountain
Laurel’s Board members give to the Annual Fund, and we count on every MLWS family to do the
same. What matters most is your participation. Each gift, no matter the size, makes an impact.

Another possible resource is employers who are willing to match an employee’s contribution. If
you think this might apply to you, please ask your employer if that is an option.

How do I give?

There are three ways to give your contribution:

  • Give online
  • Mail your contribution to Mountain Laurel; or
  • Hand-deliver your donation to the office at Mountain Laurel.

We will keep you updated on the progress of the campaign through the Parent Council Newsletter, the website, and the school’s bulletin board.

With deep appreciation for your contributions and support.