If you receive financial aid, do they expect you to contribute to Annual Giving?

[Anonymous]

I am the OP - thanks for the all replies. I was just concerned if I gave money during the Annual Giving they would think "hey if they have that money, they should be using it for tution!" and trust me I was thinking a couple hundred bucks not a thousand plus or anything but I wanted to make sure the school wasn't going to be put off.

[Anonymous]

In addition to not getting forgoing FA, I, like OP, was afraid if we gave anything more than a pittance they'd think we could afford to pay full tuition. Ah the calculus of it all!

[jhuber]

Anonymous wrote:Many schools get matching funds or pledges for additional amounts if everyone in a classroom contributes. It's always good to give something - it can be small.

I should mention that there are many ways to contribute to the well-being of a school - and not all in monetary means. Materials donations, access to resources and volunteer time all count.

I concur with this reply, and would add that it is incredibly powerful for schools to share with potential donors that a grade or division is at 100% participation. Giving begets giving. For a family receiving financial aid, a contribution given within the family's means is well appreciated, and it is a wholly separate creature from the financial aid process.

John

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:In addition to not getting forgoing FA, I, like OP, was afraid if we gave anything more than a pittance they'd think we could afford to pay full tuition. Ah the calculus of it all!

I'm confused... you are not getting FA but you don't want the school to think you can afford the full tuition??? Do you get help from family members?