What is this Fund for Villa Maria Academy Lower School?

The Fund is a yearly initiative in which we reach out to the various members of the Villa community (parents, faculty and staff, grandparents, alumnae and their families, and our friends) asking for gifts in an amount comfortable for them to give to supplement the difference between tuition paid and the actual cost of operating our academy. Our goal is always 100% participation, as gift in any amount makes a collective impact!

What is the importance of gifts to the Fund every year?

Gifts do not just demonstrate a shared dedication to the mission of Villa Maria Academy in providing a legacy of an exceptional educational experience. One hundred percent of unrestricted gifts stays at VMALS. Prayers and gifts directly benefit our students. Prayers nourish our spirit and financial gifts support:

• Advantages for our students’ goals for academic excellence as a foundation for their educational and professional careers.
• Lessening our operating expenses with long-term solutions.
• Enhancements to safety and security while students and teachers are on campus.
• Maintaining the vitality of our school buildings and campus.
• Providing our teachers with effective and personal professional development and tuition support for those pursuing an advanced degree.

What are the benefits of options like recurring and matching gifts?

If you are not comfortable with giving a one-time gift of a large amount, you can opt when you make your first donation to have it spread out over time as a recurring gift. Designate the timeline of your gifts (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or quarterly) and over time, it becomes a substantial amount. You can cancel at any time.

Many employers offer matching gifts or grants toward your donations. E-platforms have made facilitating these gifts easier to do. Ask your HR department or company foundation how to do. Often you can even double your gift and you will receive credit for both gifts (your personal one and their matching).

Thank you for your support of our Fund of VMALS this academic year!