Annual Fund FAQ
Is the annual fund the same as the direct appeal?
Yes! The Annual Fund is just a new name for the fundraising drive that we’ve called the Direct Appeal in prior years. We are just rebranding to a name we felt was more self-explanatory.
What is an employer-matched gift?
Many companies and organizations will match charitable contributions made by employees and employee spouses. It's an easy way to double, or even triple, your donation. Please check with your employer to see if they offer matching gift programs.
Often, companies will match employee gifts up to one year after the date of donation.
Can I wait for my company to offer a corporate match? Can I wait until the new year?
Yes! Our fiscal year ends June 30, 2027. Corporate matches are an incredible way to multiply your impact. However, if you can donate sooner without sacrificing a corporate match, please do so!
I always donate at the Spring Benefit. Doesn't that count towards the annual?
Our annual budget factors in revenue raised through all fundraising events, including the Benefit and the Annual Fund. All of these efforts are important! That said, the Annual Fund makes up almost 50% of our annual fundraising goal so we encourage all families to participate, with gifts at any level - as truly every dollar counts.
What about other fundraising events like the Read-a-Thon and Winter Carnival?
The Read-a-Thon and Winter Carnival are amazing community events that help kids get involved in supporting their school. These are also great ways to involve extended family, friends, and social networks in supporting our community. Some of these fundraisers use platforms and vendors that charge fees, so we recommend families allocate the majority of their giving to the Annual Fund so 100% of your donation goes to the school.
Can I donate by check?
Please write checks to: PS 527 PTA Inc
Checks can be left in the white treasurers’ mailbox outside the main office or sent in your child’s take-home folder, please include your child’s name and class on the memo line. Please email ptatreasurers@ps527.org to let them know to look out for your check.
How much should our family donate?
The suggested donation is $1,600 per child, but every contribution makes an impact on our community. We value all contributions regardless of the amount and strive for 100% participation.
How did you arrive at a $1,600 suggested donation per child?
We determine the per student donation by looking at historical Annual Fund (fka Direct Appeal) participation, current wages for staff and the cost of programs funded by this drive.
Donations at every level are welcome. Effectively and efficiently allocating parent dollars is our #1 priority.
Why is 100 percent participation so important?
100% participation sends a powerful message that we are ALL committed to our school, teachers, students and educational mission to prepare today’s students with the academic and social-emotional skills they need for success tomorrow.
A high level of participation may also support outside funding for our school. For example, high participation rates are considered when applying for grants.
Can I choose to pay in monthly installments?
Yes! Please use the following link and select PayPal Giving Monthly in the drop down menu to process your monthly donation:
Help! How do I get a receipt for my tax-deductible donation?
Auto-receipts are sent for all online donations. Please reach out to the PTA treasurers at ptatreasurers@ps527.org if donating by check or with any questions.
Where can I see the school budget and a breakdown of revenue and expenses?
The Treasurer reviews these during every PTA meeting. Dates of upcoming meetings are noted in both the Panda Press and PTA Newsletters, and minutes are available after meetings if you are unable to attend.
Direct Appeal gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for P.S. 527 PTA, Inc is 84-2226667.