Anonymous wrote:The purpose of the annual fund is almost always to fund FA in the school budget. Schools want 100% participation because it shows that everyone's committed to the goals of the school and creates a culture of philanthropy (an expectation to give and keep giving). It's not really about the grants because only donor-advised funds give money to wealthy $40,000+ private schools and the participation rate doesn't really matter to them. In most fundraising campaigns, 20% of the donors give 80% of the money. So it is no big deal that you can't give much. Besides, today you might receive FA but at some point you or your child may become a big donor.
OP here. Thank you all for your helpful feedback. To the above poster's point, my DC has already said that he plans to really support the school when he is financially able. To all of you that support the annual fund and FA at your school, thank you!