Giving to Portledge

Why is it important to give?
Everyone’s participation in the Annual Fund is essential. Give what you reasonably can and signal your commitment to Portledge School. High participation percentages among trustees, parents, alumni and faculty members help the school to solicit grants from outside sources. Great schools and colleges, public and private, depend on this support.

What is the difference between the Annual Fund, Capital Gifts and the Endowment?
The Annual Fund is a yearly appeal for donations to support current operations of the school. Capital funds are used to support specific expenses, like our current campaign, the Building for the Future Capital Campaign. Endowment funds generate income that is used to support restricted purposes, where the principal remains untouched. While all financial support to the School is important, strong support of the Annual Fund is critical and should be considered the first priority in giving to Portledge.

What is planned giving?
Planned giving as the name suggests, involves thinking before making a gift. With some consideration, we can help match a donor’s interest in helping Portledge with needs outlined in his or her financial plan, affecting maximum benefit to both the donor and the School. Some examples of planned giving vehicles include bequests, trusts, gift annuities, life insurance, and zero coupon bonds. Talk to your financial advisor, or call Turk Lewis for more information.

If tuition doesn’t cover operating expenses, why not raise tuition?
Raising tuition to cover annual operating expenses of the school would require a dramatic increase that would limit the number of qualified applicants who could afford to attend Portledge School, obstructing the diversity we now enjoy.

I contributed to last year’s Annual Fund. Where is my money being spent?
Tuition alone does not cover the cost of yearly operation. Annual Fund donations are spread throughout the School to enhance existing programs and facilities where funds are most needed across the board: enhancement of technology, financial aid, faculty professional development, athletics, special events, community service and more.

Are contributions tax-deductible?
Yes, they are tax-deductible, because we are a non-profit institution. This status also means we rely almost completely on revenue from tuition and voluntary gifts to pay for operating expenses. Volunteer support is critical to helping us maintain the breadth and quality of programs at Portledge.

Can I make a matching gift?
Many employers are willing to match your gift to Portledge School. Contact your human resources division for a form and send it in with your gift and double your contribution to the School. It’s that easy.

I really want to help, but right now isn’t a good time. Can I make a gift in the spring?
Sure. Phone in a pledge, or stop by the Advancement Office so we can record your pledge and send you a reminder to make your payment before the Fund closes at the end of May each year. Capital pledges may be scheduled for payment over three to five years.

I’m ready to make a gift. What do I do?
Online Giving: It's easy. Make your gift now by clicking the "Online Giving" tab above or click here to make a gift online.

Cash: Write a check out to “Portledge School”, indicate in the memo “Annual Fund” and send it to the Advancement Office.

Credit Cards: Call Peter Cox at (516) 750-3218 and make your payment over the phone. Credit Card gifts are quick and easy and allow the donor to enjoy rewards points on their credit card accounts.

Securities: Giving appreciated stock to the School allows the donor to avoid capital gains taxes. For information about the securities transfer process, call Turk Lewis, Director of Advancement at (516) 750-3220.

Direct Billing: Current Portledge parents may charge their Annual Fund gift to their child’s student account by calling Peter Cox at (516) 750-3218.