What is the Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is comprised of voluntary, tax-deductible gifts from parents, alumnae, grandparents, trustees, faculty, staff, and friends of Southfield School. The Annual Fund supports up to 15% of the Southfield operating budget, by bridging the gap between tuition and the actual cost of educating our students. The School solicits charitable gifts to cover the difference between tuition and the actual cost of running the school. Voluntary giving is one way to help keep tuition rates at a reasonable level. We always remind parents that a donation is tax-deductible, but tuition is not!

Gifts to the Annual Fund are usually unrestricted, meaning that the donors allow Southfield to spend them on whatever is deemed necessary, and almost never spent on items outside the operating budget. The practical equivalent of the Annual Fund is a checking account that helps Southfield's daily work. These funds help may be used to pay teacher salaries and benefits, to purchase teaching tools or technology and equipment, to fund continuing education for staff and for necessities such as light bulbs.

Why is participation important to the Annual Fund?

What is participation? Participation is the percentage of parents who give a gift of any size to Southfield. All independent schools aim for 100% participation in the Annual Fund. High participation is considered a vote of confidence, a sign that parents are willing to invest in their children's welfare and support the School's mission. This percentage can also have an impact on the gifts from outside sources; many foundations consider parent participation rates before agreeing to donate funds to a school.

Why does Southfield ask for an annual gift while you're making a capital gift?

For the same reason you have to pay your mortgage while you're putting an addition on your house. The School must continue to meet its operating costs even as it's making major acquisitions and improvements.

Why does Southfield ask for philanthropic support in addition to tuition?

Providing an exceptional educational experience with the finest faculty and an environment that fosters learning requires voluntary philanthropic support from those who believe in Southfield and our mission. Currently, tuition, fees, and other operating revenue cover only 80% of the cost of educating our students, leaving a per-student deficit of between $?? And $??. Your charitable support of Southfield helps ensure that our students receive the academic excellence they deserve.

Where does the money go?

Gifts to Southfield's Annual Fund go directly toward the day-to-day operations of the school, making up more than ??% of the school's budget last year. Your generosity helps Southfield attract and retain the very best faculty who prepare our students for the next step in their academic journey and for their lives in a rapidly changing world.

What are the giving levels for the Annual Fund?

How can I make a gift?

You can support Southfield School by making a gift of cash, appreciated assets, or bequests. To make a gift today, please call Southfield's Development Office at 318.868.8773. To make a gift online, go to our secure online gift form.

Growing the Promise Endowment Campaign