Overview
Star Academy is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization. Donations to Star Academy are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by IRS guidelines.
Fundraising Needs and Goals:
This year (2009-2010) our goal is to raise over $300,000 through a combination of fundraising events, foundation grants, private donations and the annual fund. These funds will support the following near-term needs and priorities for Star Academy:
- Program Support for Continuing Operations– For continuation of our outstanding programs and therapies, such as Making Math Real, Social Communication and Social Skills Development, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and others.
- 8 Passenger Vans - For morning and afternoon student transportation to Star, support for field trips, and to provide access to offsite enrichment activities and vocational/life skills training opportunities.
- Playground Equipment – The addition of swings, a climbing structure and picnic tables in our outdoor recreation area to enhance social interactions and healthy exercise habits.
- Tuition Assistance –For qualified students based on financial need. Provides access to Star Academy’s outstanding programs and services.
- Capital for High School Expansion - Star is currently assessing the feasibility of raising the necessary capital to purchase and remodel building(s) to expand our high school. This would make it possible to serve more students with learning differences than our small program currently accommodates. If you can help, please contact Susan Mackay Sweeney, Director of Development (415) 456-8727, ext 103 or email Susan>
Ways to Give:
Employer Matching Funds or Giving through the United Way
Star Gala
Foundations, Family Trusts, and Major Donors
Gifts of Stocks and Securities
Commemorative & Memorial Gifts
Planned Giving
Naming Opportunities
Donor Recognition
You can make a difference!
The annual fund is a significant part of our total fundraising goal. 100% participation from our parent community, and strong support from alumni, relatives, and friends will demonstrate commitment to our school and is critical in the grant acquisition process. Contributions of any size, whether substantial or modest, are welcomed, needed, and greatly appreciated. All gifts will be recognized and gifts of $5,000 and over will be memorialized on our major donor wall to be installed later this year.
Unless otherwise noted, all donations to the annual fund support general operations. Donations are fully tax-deductible as allowed by IRS guidelines.
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A matching gift from your employer is a fast and easy way to leverage the value of your gift. Some employers will match double or triple what you have donated. Please ask your employer if they have a matching gift program. They will provide you with a form which you can send to our business office. We will verify your contribution with your employer and complete the paperwork process.
Donor Directed Gifts through the United Way
Many organizations provide opportunities for employer-matched gifts to the United Way. If your company is included, you may designate Star Academy to receive your donor directed gift through the United Way. Please provide your employer with the following information to ensure that we do indeed receive the funds, and not another organization.
Shining Star Foundation, DBA Star Academy
4470 Redwood Highway
San Rafael, CA 94903
Tax ID #68-0221149
The annual spring gala is an important open-to-the-public fundraising event which generates funds crucial to supporting the School. Funds are generated through corporate and private underwriters, ticket sales, and a silent and live auction. To become an underwriter, make a donation, or purchase tickets, please contact our Gala Committee.
Foundations, Family Trusts, and Major Donors
Foundations, family trusts, and major donors are a vital source of on-going financial support for Star Academy. If you know of or have connections with organizations or individuals who might be interested in helping support the mission of Star, please let us know. It is important for us to continue to identify and develop such relationships so that we are able to receive the financial support we need to maintain and expand Star’s remarkable program. Please contact our Development Director.
Gifts of stock and securities are an excellent way of donating to Star the full appreciated value of an investment while simultaneously avoiding capital gains tax. This is achieved by transferring the stock to Star Academy. As a tax-exempt organization, Star Academy can realize the full value of the stock tax-free. For more information about transferring stock and/or securities to Star, please call our Development Director.
Commemorative & Memorial Gifts
Honor an individual or occasion with a contribution to Star Academy. Your commemorative or memorial gifts will turn glowing memories into brighter futures for our students. Commemorative and memorial gifts also may be targeted to specific Star Academy Programs
You can create a powerful and lasting legacy by including Star Academy in your long-term financial planning. A planned gift is a donor’s commitment to benefit Star Academy through a gift that takes effect at death or after a term of years. When you include Star Academy in your will or other estate plans, you help provide long term financial strength and security which the School needs to help future generations of Star Academy students. Click here for sample bequest language.
Leave a legacy! Star Academy offers numerous naming opportunities starting at $2,500 and going up to $1,000,000+. This is a wonderful way to be remembered forever for your donation to Star Academy. Click here to view naming opportunities >
Star Academy consistently and graciously extends thanks and gratitude to every donor for every gift.
Since 1990, Star Academy has recognized and paid tribute to special gifts and individuals for the purpose of honoring their philanthropy or service to the school.
Beginning in 2008, all gifts of $5,000 or more in a single year will be recognized on our major donor wall near the front lobby of the school.
Beginning in 2008, Star Academy will recognize every donor’s name in print through our newsletter to parents and the Star Academy community. If you would like to be included on the distribution list for this newsletter, please let us know. Contact Dorothy Khosrovi at (415) 456-8727, ext 117.
For specific information about how donations to the Gala are recognized, please contact our Gala Committee.
