Founding Families

As our fourth year of operation draws to a close, we can now look beyond our “start-up mode” and begin laying the foundation for Harmel’s long-term financial stability.

To this end, we are inviting all our Founding Families — those whose sons attended Harmel Academy in the first two years of operation— to help us establish an endowment fund with the Catholic Foundation of West Michigan. 

Two of these alumni families have already agreed to seed the initial $5,700 of our [$17,150] goal. This will allow us to establish the fund, with hopes that we are able to hit the minimum endowment of $25,000 within the first year of its existence. 

But more important than the amount is our goal to have 100% participation from all alumni families. What is most important is that we are able to tell future generations of Harmel students that the first generations were men who looked ahead with hope and generosity.

Will you help us hit our goal of 100% participation from alumni families? No matter the size, every gift matters.

What is an Endowment Fund?

An endowment fund is a financial vehicle established by organizations such as universities, non-profits, or foundations to help provide long-term financial stability and support for their operations or specific purposes.

Contributions to an endowment fund are invested, and the returns generated from these investments are used to fund initiatives, programs, scholarships, or other projects in perpetuity. Endowment funds are structured to ensure that only a portion of the investment returns is spent each year, allowing the principal to remain intact and grow over time, thus providing a reliable source of income for the organization's future needs. These funds play a crucial role in sustaining the mission and objectives of the organization, providing a steady stream of income for generations to come. 

Harmel Academy’s endowment fund will be held with the Catholic Foundation of West Michigan.