What is the Eagle Fund and how does it differ from other fundraisers at IHM?

The Eagle Fund, formerly the Annual Fund, is a campaign to solicit unrestricted contributions from parents, grandparents, alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, staff, parishioners, and friends of IHM School to defray the costs of an IHM education that tuition revenue alone does not cover. Donations to the Eagle Fund meet needs in the current year operating budget, helping to sustain and improve the School in all areas.  The Eagle Fund helps us to “bridge the gap” between what it costs to educate a child at IHM and our tuition.

Why not increase the tuition if it does not cover all the costs of education?

Part of our mission is making an IHM education available to the most diverse, qualified students who seek Catholic education so we work hard to minimize tuition increases.  Raising tuition to meet all costs would mean that many families would be unable to send their children to IHM.  Additionally, contributions to the Eagle Fund are tax-deductible, whereas tuition is not.  This gives each family an opportunity to take advantage of tax incentives related to donating through the Eagle Fund. 

What if I can only give a little? Should I bother?

Every gift is important in terms of reaching our overall goals. We will be delighted with any gift you can make, as it demonstrates your commitment to and confidence in IHM School.

Why does IHM have both the Eagle Fund and Home and School fundraising?

The Eagle Fund receives funds directly from the donor and the donor receives no goods or services in exchange for his or her gift. As a 501 (c)(3) charity, the tax benefits of giving to the Eagle Fund are attractive. There is very little overhead to the Eagle Fund and all monies collected go directly to school operations. Additionally, many corporations match Eagle Fund donations, which can more than double your gift.

Home and School fundraising is accomplished through events where the donor receives goods or services for their purchase/donation and is meant to fund the activities planned throughout the year in support of the school. Additionally, the two major H&S fundraisers in the spring and fall are used to raise funds in support of the long-term strategies outlined in the school’s Strategic Plan.

Doesn’t IHM get money from the Archdiocese?

The school does not receive funding for general operating expenses.  However, all schools in the Archdiocese receive yearly block grants to assist with financial aid. The Archdiocese also supports the GRACE Scholar's program which coordinates scholarships for qualified students.

Why is IHM more expensive than Catholic schools in other areas of the country?

The Archdiocese of Atlanta is blessed with a very high demand for Catholic education and the Archdiocese is still playing a game of “catch up” in building schools. Ten years ago, the new model was instituted which ended subsidies to the schools in order to concentrate on the $72 million debt note as a result of building new schools. Each school is now responsible for funding its own operating budget. In our case, tuition at IHM is still one of the least expensive Catholic schools in Atlanta. Additionally, other Archdioceses and schools have large endowment funds that are used to supplement tuition at Catholic schools. At this time, the Atlanta Archdiocese does not have this type of fund.

Can Eagle Fund monies be used to help supplement teachers’ salaries?

No. Teacher salary scales are set by the Archdiocese and we, as a school, cannot alter or supplement teacher salaries. We can, however, offer education assistance and other incentives and support such as those provided by Home and School Association. These efforts make IHM a special and unique place of which teachers want to be a part.

May I donate stock to the annual fund?

Yes! IHM can receive stock donations, which can be an advantageous tax choice. Just call the Advancement Office to receive the instructions. The number is 404-636-4488.

I participated in GRACE Scholars. Doesn’t that count?

While GRACE is a great benefit to our School for providing tuition assistance to incoming students, it cannot be used for the operations of the school and is not a donation, but a redirection of tax money that you will pay to the State anyway. We are grateful for the success of the GRACE Scholars program this year and hope that you can participate in both campaigns. To participate in GRACE, please visit www.gracescholars.org.