Annual fundraising continues to support St. Charles School.

Fundraisers are an essential part of the school’s community spirit, while additionally supporting our operating budget. More than 20% of the cost of educating each student is paid for through fundraising. To keep tuition affordable, St. Charles is heavily dependent upon the success of these various efforts. Ten of the 40-hour volunteer requirement is allocated to fundraising activities at St. Charles.

Fundraisers succeed because of the commitment and participation of every family at St. Charles. In addition to building a sense of community, fundraisers help:

• Supplement our operating budget to help keep tuition costs lower
• Fund improvements to the school and classrooms
• Defray the increasing costs of tuition

Under the leadership of the School Advisory Board and the Fundraising Committee, St. Charles developed a strategic approach to school fundraising. Parents are now able to target their efforts into more effective, and fewer, fundraising activities—increasing success and diminishing “fundraising fatigue.”

Spring Auction

As the primary school fundraiser, the spring event features a Silent and Live Auction, dinner, and a GREAT time for all! Many helpers are needed to make this the success that it is. Each family should contribute at least 2 hours of their 40 parent service hours to make this event successful and fun. Volunteers are needed to solicit, collect and package auction items, decorate, publicize, set-up/clean-up and manage the on-site activities. In order to meet our financial goals, the Auction Committee will be seeking participation from all St. Charles School families in some way.

Scrip Program

The goal of Scrip is to increase the use of this system. Scrip is a simple and cost effective way to raise funds for the school—it is the only fundraiser that does not cost families any additional money. Purchase buying cards (gift cards) from the school to purchase gasoline, groceries, clothing, entertainment, etc. Or, enroll credit cards in the e-scrip program. Families are encouraged to use Scrip whenever possible.

Back-to-School Walk-a-thon

This popular fall activity generates school spirit and raises essential funds. Students sign up sponsors to support their afternoon of walking around the upper yard.

Annual Fall Giving Appeal

This is an annual financial appeal to our school families and alumni to help fund tuition assistance.

Grant Writing

Throughout the year, grants present wonderful opportunities for the school to gain funding and resources in support of our academic programs. Volunteers are needed to seek grant opportunities, and assist in writing and managing the submission process.

Basketball Tournament

Hosted by St. Charles in December, the Annual Winter Classic Basketball Tourney includes over 100 teams from numerous schools throughout the Bay Area playing over 150 games. Volunteers are needed in a variety of capacities; scorekeeping, snack sales, gym prep, etc. The sixth grade sponsors the snack shack at the tournament to raise funds for their eighth-grade graduation expenses.

Endowment Fund

St. Charles School currently has a small endowment with additional funding due in 2014 as a result of the 2009 Capital Campaign. These donations are held in interest-earning investments and are managed by the Archdiocese. The interest income from these long-term investments will help ensure that quality education at St. Charles continues for years to come. If you, your company, or another family member would like to establish an endowment fund, or contribute to the existing investment, please contact our school Principal for more information.