Welcome
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Annual Appeal?
Each year, Rashi must raise enough private support to close the gap between tuition charged and the real cost of educating our students. The 2007-2008 goal is $816,000. Unrestricted gifts, including the net proceeds of our fundraising events goes towards meeting this goal.
Learn more about the Annual Appeal.
May I restrict my gift for a particular purpose?
Of course. Please understand that unrestricted gifts give us the most flexibility, enabling the school to respond to unanticipated expenses or take advantage of unforeseen opportunities. Still, you may restrict your gift for a particular purpose or program. Please have a conversation with a member of the Advancement staff as you make your gift to insure proper crediting.
When should we make our gift?
Rashi operates on a fiscal year that runs from July 1 through June 30. For obvious reasons, it helps the School for you to make your gift as early in the fiscal year as possible. Many people choose to pay their pledges before December 31 to take advantage of the tax deduction. If you cannot pay your pledge in the fall, please consider making a pledge as early in the fiscal year as possible, to help the school with planning. All pledges should be paid before June 30.
Why are you no longer giving donors complimentary tickets to the Annual Dinner in the spring?
We have changed our policy in order to separate giving to the Annual Appeal from attending a fundraising event. We are encouraging donors to contribute to the campaign whether or not they plan to attend an event, and to consider the Annual Dinner an additional fundraiser for the Annual Appeal. To meet our goal, the Dinner needs to raise over $200,000 (net).
If I am interested in supporting Rashi, and also want to attend the Annual Dinner in the spring, what should I do?
The best case for Rashi would be if you would make a gift or pledge now (we’ll provide recognition as outlined on the Recognition Levels page) AND plan to buy tickets to the Dinner. If you cannot make a gift or pledge now, you may choose to support the Annual Appeal by buying tickets when you receive your Dinner invitation.
How do matching gift programs work?
As a benefit to you, your employer may match your charitable giving. Details of this program are available in your company’s human resources management office. You complete very simple forms, send them to Rashi, and we take it from there. Matching gifts could double or triple the value of your gift!
What is the Campaign for Rashi?
The Campaign for Rashi was organized several years ago to raise $30 million in private support to build a new, permanent home for the school in Dedham.
Learn more about the Campaign for Rashi.
What is an endowment and endowed funds?
Endowments are funds intended to be kept permanently and invested to provide income for continued support of the Rashi School. The Rashi Board of Trustees oversees the investment strategy and makes decisions as to how the income available will be spent. In part, the endowment is a collection of permanent “named funds” that may support specific purposes like financial aid, faculty professional development, technology, library resources or other objectives.
Learn more about endowment gifts.
Can I make a gift to Rashi using appreciated stock?
Yes. Making a gift in this way may have very significant tax advantages.
Learn more about using stock to make a gift to Rashi.
I just can’t give a lot – why is a small gift so important?
We understand that the amount that may be given to Rashi varies widely. The reason that we encourage everyone to give is because of the power of that message. We are always trying to increase the number of people who support Rashi – particularly throughout the Greater Boston Jewish community. When we near 100% participation by parents, grandparents, and alumni – those who are arguably closest to Rashi – we send a powerful message to others that this is an institution worth supporting.
I want to give anonymously. How is this handled?
We respect the wishes of all donors. Please have a confidential conversation with Matt King, Head of School (617-969-7300 x222). Your inquiry will be held in strict confidence.
