Why does Riverbend have an Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is a critical component of Riverbend’s operational expenses and helps to supplement budgets for financial aid, classroom materials, technology, professional development, field trips, community events, educational enrichment programming, and more. It is because of the Annual Fund that Riverbend can decrease the School’s dependence on tuition and maintain greater affordability. This is true of most independent schools. Additionally, since Riverbend does not yet have endowment income contributing to the financial model, the school relies on current giving.

My family can’t afford to give much; does my gift really make a difference?

YES! Every contribution is meaningful and your support sends a message to the community that you believe in the mission and vision of Riverbend School. Beyond this, external institutions look at the participation rate of the Annual Fund when they evaluate the School. These can be a bank, when the school applies for a loan to construct a building; a foundation when the School applies for a grant; or a corporation when the School seeks support from the local business community.

Numbers matter and, last year, 100% of our staff and 90% of our families participated in the Annual Fund. It is a significant claim for a school to be able to say it has full support of its fundraising efforts. Make the donation that feels right for you. We strive to make you proud of your choice to support Riverbend.

What is the difference between the Annual Fund and the Annual Gala?

Your donation to the annual fund is an unrestricted gift to the School that directly supports the current operating budget.  Proceeds from the annual event are also unrestricted, but sometimes they are designated for financial aid or other specific initiatives.

Does Riverbend School have an endowment fund?

Not currently, but we are thinking of our School’s long term viability and hope to build one soon. Balancing the current needs of the school with the capacity of the community in conjunction with building for the future are all considerations of an endowment effort. If you are interested in discussing endowment plans, please contact Riverbend’s Director of Development and Alumni Relations, Katelyn Lincoln, at 508-655-7333 ext. 225 or [email protected].

Are my donations tax deductible?

Yes. Our annual fund coincides with the School’s fiscal year: July 1-June 30. All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law for the calendar year in which they are made.

How do I donate?

Visit our Ways To Give page for all the ways you can contribute, or contact Katelyn Lincoln, Director of Development and Alumni Relations, at [email protected]