Fundraising at Oakwood
How does fundraising work at Oakwood?
Like most schools, Oakwood is active in its fundraising efforts. The largest source of fundraising is from donations to the Annual Fund campaign from Oakwood families. Oakwood also supports pre-approved fundraisers benefiting class trips, events, and clubs. (Oakwood School does not permit the selling of goods on campus for personal gain.) Oakwood also hosts two major fundraising events each year, the Auction and the Fund Run. All Oakwood families are asked to participate in some way every year.
Why should I donate when I already pay tuition?
Tuition is used to fund the school’s basic operations. Unlike most other independent schools, all funds donated to Oakwood go to enhancing the school and its programs, not to pay for the school’s basic operations. All donated funds (unless otherwise restricted by the donor) go to the general unrestricted Annual Fund. This is an important way to benefit the school and your students and to be eligible for tax benefits. Donations to the Annual Fund are used wherever the need is greatest each school year.
As we welcome new generations into the Oakwood School family, we recognize that providing a more intentional education also requires equally intentional planning for our school’s future. Together, we can sustain the promise of an Oakwood education, both for students today and for generations to come. Classroom teaching and learning develop students’ competencies – like collaboration, problem-solving, global awareness, and analysis – while equipping students’ hearts and minds to give, serve, and take citizen action to better their world. Developing philanthropy in students will equip them to be successful in our diverse world.
As an independent, non-profit, non-sectarian school, we rely on donations from families and alumni to ensure a thriving future for our students. We also seek funding from foundations and other philanthropic organizations, who look at our community’s contribution rates to decide whether and how much to give. That’s why every person—not just every dollar—matters. Both generous donations and widespread support at every level make a real difference to Oakwood.
Are all families at Oakwood asked to donate to the school?
Yes. The school asks that all participate in the school’s fundraising efforts. The goal is for every family to donate every year to the Annual Fund campaign and participate in fundraising events as they feel they would like to and are able to do so. Some give a little and some give more as circumstances differ, and every donation is very much appreciated. Each year we strive for 100% parent participation, and broad participation is a critical goal and an important sign of support for the school in order for Oakwood to secure outside funding through grants, etc.
Does Oakwood qualify for matching funds from my work?
Many Oakwood families and their friends work for companies that offer a matching gift program. These corporate philanthropy programs vary from company to company, but generally, they will match some portion of their employees’ donations to qualified charitable institutions, such as schools. As an accredited school and a not-for-profit public benefit corporation, Oakwood qualifies for nearly every corporate matching program. Oakwood relies on philanthropic giving from parents and the wider community, and students benefit from gifts large and small. By taking advantage of your corporate matching gift program, you can maximize the value of your gift at no additional cost. You can check with your company’s HR department to inquire about matching or contact giving@oakwoodway.org for assistance or more information.
Can donations to Oakwood be tax deductible?
Yes! Since Oakwood is a California public-benefit corporation designated as a 501(c)(3) by the IRS, donors may receive tax deductions by reporting their donations with their tax returns. Donors should contact their tax advisor for specific tax-related questions.
How are the donated funds used?
All donated funds, unless otherwise restricted by the donor, go to the Annual Fund, which supports several areas of the school including: our campus, science and technology, enrichment, faculty, and scholarship. If donors designate their donations to specifically benefit one of these allocations, their funds will only be used for the purposes of that specific area.
Donations in support of the specific allocations go toward the following areas:
- Campus: Supports the enhancement and expansion of the Oakwood campus in conjunction with our ongoing capital campaign, Spreading Our Roots.
- Science & Technology: Expands the school’s resources to enhance the teaching environment and student experience.
- Enrichment: Used to grow the library and enhance the school’s arts and other enrichment programs.
- Faculty: Used to support professional development opportunities and enhance faculty compensation.
- Scholarship: Used to expand and strengthen the school community by providing merit-based scholarships to deserving students.
Do my donations have to be designated to go to one of the five funds?
No. Most donations come to the school designated as “Oakwood’s greatest needs”, which means they are unrestricted donations. However, the school still directs these donations to one or more of the five allocations as needed. On rare occasions, the school accepts donations for other purposes and always expends funds consistent with the donor’s designation.
Does any of the donated money go to day-to-day operations?
No. Unlike many private schools, Oakwood does not ask donors to pay for the base operation of the school. Donated funds are used exclusively to enhance and grow the school and its programs through the Annual Fund. As a non-profit corporation, there are no profits or dividends for shareholders or owners as there are in for-profit entities. When school revenue exceeds expenses all available funds are reinvested in the school.
How will I know the results of fundraising each year?
Every year the school provides to all Oakwood families an annual report of fundraising results and how fundraising dollars were spent the previous fiscal year. Our Book of Gratitude reports how every fundraising dollar has been utilized. This report is sent to all donors and every Oakwood family..
What type of recognition do donors receive?
Oakwood’s faculty, staff, and students appreciate all donations, regardless of amount. Please visit our website for more information on Oakwood’s Donor Recognition. Those who are able to give at higher levels make a tremendous difference and the school provides additional recognition, including naming opportunities.