GUIDE TO
Philanthropy Statement PHILANTHROPY AT BURKE’S IS A REFLECTION OF OUR COMMITMENT OF EMPOWERING GIRLS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD.
WE STRIVE TO CREATE A CULTURE OF GIVING THAT IS INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE TO ALL MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY, REGARDLESS OF BACKGROUND OR CIRCUMSTANCE. THROUGH PHILANTHROPY, WE AIM TO PROVIDE OUR STUDENTS WITH THE RESOURCES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND SUPPORT THEY NEED TO THRIVE ACADEMICALLY, SOCIALLY, AND EMOTIONALLY.
WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THE GENEROSITY OF OUR DONORS, VOLUNTEERS, AND SUPPORTERS WHO SHARE OUR VISION AND HELP MAKE OUR MISSION A REALITY. TOGETHER, WE ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE LEADERS, THINKERS, AND CHANGEMAKERS OF TOMORROW, AND WE ARE PROUD TO BE A PART OF SUCH A VIBRANT AND CARING COMMUNITY.
GUIDE TO GIVING AND GETTING INVOLVED
Fostering a Culture of Philanthropy
At Burke’s, we take immense pride in our vibrant and inclusive community, fueled by a strong culture of philanthropy. The generosity of our community members plays a pivotal role in sustaining the exceptional learning environment we provide for our students. Your contributions enable us to uphold competitive teacher salaries, offer significant financial assistance to families, maintain an innovative curriculum, and ensure our facilities meet the evolving needs of both students and educators. 01
Why Your Support MATTERS EMPOWERING TEACHERS
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GUIDE TO GIVING AND GETTING INVOLVED
Your generosity directly supports our dedicated teaching staff by ensuring they receive competitive salaries. This commitment to our educators allows us to attract and retain the best talent, creating an enriching educational experience for our students.
INCREASING ACCESSIBILITY
Philanthropic contributions make a significant impact on our Collaborative Tuition Program, to make a Burke’s education accessible to a diverse range of students.
MODERN FACILITIES
Your support ensures our campus facilities are designed to meet the evolving needs of our teachers and students, providing an inspiring learning environment aligned with the highest standards of education.
INNOVATIVE CURRICULUM
We strive to be at the forefront of girls’ education. Your contributions fuel our commitment to developing and maintaining an innovative curriculum that prepares our students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
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DIVERSE
Fundraising Opportunities Burke’s offers a range of diverse and meaningful fundraising opportunities, providing avenues for all members of our community to contribute. Whether you are a current parent, grandparent, parent of an alumnae, or an alumnae yourself, there are various ways to get involved. We strive for 100% parent participation in all fundraising and communitybuilding initiatives, and our community’s robust involvement is a testament to the collective commitment we share.
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GUIDE TO GIVING AND GETTING INVOLVED
Every Gift Makes a DIFFERENCE We believe in the power of collective giving. Regardless of the size of your contribution, every gift is meaningful, impactful, and deeply appreciated. Your generosity directly contributes to the advancement of Burke’s mission, reinforcing our dedication to providing an exceptional education for every student.
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Ways to Give ANNUAL FUND:
Make a direct impact by contributing to the Annual Fund, which plays a crucial role in supporting a variety of initiatives at Burke’s. Your participation in the Annual Fund contributes to nearly 10% of the school’s annual operating budget. THIS ESSENTIAL FUND SUPPORTS:
Academic Programs
Ensuring a dynamic and innovative curriculum for our students.
Teacher Professional Development Investing in the growth and expertise of our dedicated teaching staff and faculty.
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Collaborative Tuition Program
Providing financial access to our school through reduced tuition to qualifying families; making a Burke’s education accessible to a diverse range of students.
Campus Maintenance
Preserving the charm and functionality of our classrooms and beloved 3.5-acre campus.
Fundraising Events
Participate in major fundraising and community-building events organized by Burke’s Parents’ Association annually:
FAMILY FESTIVAL (FALL)
A joyful event that brings together more than 2,000 people in the community in the spirit of fun.
BURKE’S BENEFIT (SPRING) An impactful gathering that supports crucial programs for student financial assistance and faculty and staff professional development.
DASH (SPRING)
A semi-competitive family walk/ run that not only promotes physical activity but also raises funds for physical education and athletics.
GUIDE TO GIVING AND GETTING INVOLVED
Capital Campaign
Capital campaigns have played a transformative role in shaping the Burke’s campus into the unique and treasured place it is today. These campaigns have not only enhanced our physical surroundings but have also grown our endowment to support exceptional teachers, a robust Collaborative Tuition Program, and an innovative curriculum that sets Burke’s apart. The success of our capital campaigns is a testament to the dedication and generosity of the Burke’s community. Your support has a lasting impact on the present and future generations of students and faculty.
Endowment Fund
Consider a lasting legacy by contributing to the endowment fund that supports long-term sustainability and growth of the institution. Without adequate, wisely invested endowment funds, an institution is forever at the mercy of conditions beyond its control, such as economic, philanthropic, and demographic fluctuations, and unforeseen catastrophic events. A strong endowment is the mark of an esteemed and enduring institution. Many of our families and alumnae have established named endowment funds to honor loved ones or their family’s legacy to the school. Please contact Yukiko Meadows, Director of Advancement, with any questions about establishing a fund. 07
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Volunteer Opportunities
Your time and talents are needed!
As members of the Burke’s Parents’ Association, your participation is crucial in helping us achieve our community goals each year. Volunteering is a fantastic way to connect with other community members, have fun, and make a real impact on our school. We encourage you to get involved in any way that suits your skills, interests, and availability. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a regular role, your contribution is valuable and appreciated. Join us in making a difference at Burke’s!
Room Parent
Field Trip Chaperone
Fundraising
Guest Speaker
Event Planning
Lunch Volunteer
Library Assistant
Reading Buddy
Communicate with parents and organize occasional classroom activities to support the teacher and enhance the students’ experience.
Organize and assist with school events such as fundraisers, community events, and teacher appreciation days.
Supervise and support students during school field trips to ensure safety and enhance their learning experience.
Assist in serving lunch to students, ensuring a smooth and efficient mealtime experience.
Participate in or lead fundraising efforts to support school programs and initiatives.
Help manage the library by shelving books and assisting the librarians.
Share your expertise or experiences with students by giving presentations or leading workshops.
Read with students to help improve their literacy skills and foster a love for reading.
We encourage you to explore these opportunities and remember that you can customize a volunteer position to align with your unique skills, knowledge, and time constraints, ensuring a fulfilling and impactful experience.
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How to Participate Opportunities
Review our diverse fundraising initiatives to find a cause that resonates with you.
Engage with the Community
Attend events, volunteer for a committee, and connect with fellow community members who share a passion for Burke’s.
Explore
Make a Gift
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Your contribution, whether big or small, is a valuable investment in the continued success of Burke’s. Visit burkes.org/give to make a gift today.
BURKE’S ANNUAL GIVING LEVELS: Visionaries Circle ($50,000 and above) Founders Circle ($25,000 - $49,999) Second Century Society ($20,000 - $24,999) *Legacy Leaders ($10,000 - $19,999) Patrons Circle ($7,500 - $9,999) Century Circle ($5,000 - $7,499) Green & Gold Scholars ($1,500 - $4,999) Burke’s Boosters (Up to $1,499) *Our Leadership Circle is made up of donors at Legacy Leaders and above.
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Thank you for being an integral part of our philanthropic community at Burke’s.
Your support ensures that we can continue to empower the next generation of leaders and provide an exceptional educational experience for all our students.
SEPTEMBER
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Giving Timeline
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
ANNUAL FUND SOLICITATION
Pledge by November 24
There are 400 ways to be a Burke’s girl and 1000s of ways to support Burke’s.
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE Pledges Due by June 1
Leadership Donor Event
BENEFIT Outreach Begins
Tickets on Sale
Benefit April 17
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GUIDE TO QUESTIONS? CONTACT: Yukiko Meadows Director of Advancement yukiko.meadows@burkes.org
Melissa Sterling Annual Giving & Alumnae Engagement Manager melissa.sterling@burkes.org