FUNDRAISING AT CDM: WHERE SHOULD I PUT MY MONEY?

Simply put, we all need to support each of the 3 main 501(c)(3) fundraising organizations at CDM.  Each organization supports a specific range of expenses at CDM, all are designed to improve your child’s experience at CDM, and all are necessary.

FUNDRAISING GOAL

Foundation           $1,000,000 for the annual budget

Boosters              $100,000 for arts, academics, activities & athletics

PTA                     $110,000+ from Home Tour

REQUESTED DONATION

Foundation           $1,500 per family per year

Boosters              $250 per family

PTA                     $10.00 membership

These are substantial goals, but the CDM community has proven time and again that these goals are doable.  The CDM families before us have enabled these organizations to make a difference at CDM and it is up to us to continue that legacy.

The CdM Foundation seeks to create a national model of excellence in academic achievement, cultural appreciation and leadership development, preparing for the challenges of the 21st Century through a dynamic partnership with the community.

Annual Budget - The Foundation supports far-reaching programs and personnel primarily for recurring costs requiring annual funding.  These programs and personnel have no other source of funding and would not exist but for the Foundation..  The annual budget of the Foundation, which is approximately $600,000 per year, funds extra guidance counselors, the college counselor, extra days for the school nurse, teaching assistants, computer lab assistance, math clinic, science clinic, athletic trainer, 7th/8th grade activities director, community service coordinator and the senior project coordinator.  The Foundation budget this year is based on actual fundraising for last year.  Next year’s budget will be based on this year’s fundraising.  So what we raise this year determines the programs your child will have next year.

Quad Renovation - In addition, the Foundation is spearheading the fundraising for a major renovation of the central Quad.  The plans are being finalized and the estimated cost to complete the project is $400,000.  This money will need to be raised during the 2007-2008 school year.

The Booster Club supports Academics, Arts, Activities, and Athletics.  

Boosters accept requests for funding throughout the year based on funds donated during the current year.  The average request is less than $5,000.  The Boosters set aside at least 30% of their donations for staff development and continuing education, key components to the continued success of CDM.  70% of the funds raised will respond to current needs such as software licenses, targeted technology consistent with the technology plan, resource materials, special assemblies, registration fees, academic enrichment, athletic support.  Next year, the Boosters is making a large $40,000 investment in staff development to support CdM’s expanding curriculum and our technology plan.

The CdM PTA, in addition to customary PTA responsibilities, sponsors the Home Tour.  Home Tour raises about $110,000 each year through ticket sales to the public.   The PTA responds to monthly wish list requests of up to $3,000, including components of the technology plan.  In addition the PTA grants a once yearly request of up to $15,000.