Ruffing Montessori School’s Annual Fund donors provide critical operating support for the school. Although tuition income meets the school’s operating budget for the essential functions of the school, Annual Fund income supplements it, allowing the school the flexibility to enhance the core as new curricular opportunities arise. Annual Fund contributions are vital for maintaining the excellence at Ruffing.

This important level of support comes from the tax-deductible donations of Parents, Grandparents, Faculty and Staff, Parents of Alumni, Alumni and Friends of the School. While Trustee giving sets the pace, Parents work toward a participation goal of 100%.

Every gift makes a difference, both by providing a financial benefit to the school and by inspiring others to participate in support of our mission. Importantly, demonstrating high participation by our donor base is effective in leveraging support from foundations and corporations. It’s easy to make your pledge online.

Each year, from July 1 through June 30, the school conducts its Annual Giving Campaign where every member of the Ruffing community is invited to make a gift in support of the mission and the ongoing work of the school. This major effort is essential to the fiscal health of the school because it funds the extras not covered by tuition, as well as unexpected expenses associated with the ongoing operation of the physical plant. All members of the Board are expected to participate and 100% participation by the parents is the goal each year. The Annual Fund is a true instance where every gift makes a difference. Having the ability to demonstrate strong support from the school community leverages other giving, such as foundation support. Further, many corporate matching gift programs make it possible for their employees to direct corporate gifts for the benefit of the school, a valuable benefit to the employee and to Ruffing.

Annual Fund Gift Recognition Levels

Montessori Founders Society
This leadership donor society was established in 2007 to recognize Annual Fund donors who make a gift of $1,000 or more. Members provide affirming support that benefits the school financially and inspires others to become involved, further strengthening Ruffing as an independent school. Members enjoy annual social gatherings.

Fundraising Volunteer Leadership