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Shoshanna Goldberg
Director of Development and Communications
(e):shoshannag@jcdsboston.org


Shari Levitz
Director of Development Operations & Communications
(e): sharil@jcdsboston.org


Sari Korman
Executive Director of Major Gifts
(e): sarik@jcdsboston.org

FAQ

שאלות נפוצות


Why should I give?

JCDS is a nonprofit organization that operates without financial support from local or federal taxes. Like most independent schools, JCDS relies on annual philanthropic support to complete our budget each year. While tuition is the largest source of revenue for the school, tuition alone does not cover the complete cost of operating the school. The JCDS Fund provides a critically important source of revenue, nearly 15% of the operating budget, that allows the Head of School to use resources where they are needed most. With a direct and immediate impact, your Annual Fund donations provide money that is available now to support our faculty, financial aid, curriculum innovation, and campus upkeep. Friends are encouraged to renew and increase their commitment on an annual basis.

Will my gift really make a difference?

Yes! Every gift to JCDS is needed and appreciated. For many individuals and families, annual giving is a tradition that reflects their values. We ask that you make JCDS your philanthropic priority and that you make gifts that are personally meaningful. Judaism teaches us not only the values of Tzedakah (philanthropy) and Tikkun Olam (Social Justice), but also the value of leading by example. No matter what the size of your gift, you encourage participation by community members around you.

Can I help by volunteering?

Yes! The day to day involvement of parents, grandparents and friends makes such a huge difference in our school. The presence of helpful adults creates a warm, family feeling that has been the hallmark of JCDS since its founding. Perhaps you want to volunteer by asking others to support the school? Or by joining an event planning committee? We need and encourage volunteers, and hope in addition you will include JCDS in your charitable giving. For volunteer opportunities please contact JCDS's Va'ad Horim (parent association). Click here for more details.

What are the JCDS Annual Fund and the Parent Campaign?

The JCDS Annual Fund and the Parent Campaign both comprise the school's Annual Fund. All gifts so designated are joined in an unrestricted pool of revenue that is raised and spent annually. Each year, our annual fund resets to zero, and each year we aim for a new financial goal. We reach out to current parents through the Parent Campaign and to our extended community of supporters through JCDS Annual Fund appeals, special events, alumni engagement and volunteer fundraising.

What is Endowment Giving?

Thanks to the generosity of the many donors who responded to endowment challenge grants, the JCDS endowment was established in 1999 and continues to grow. Unlike annual donations which are raised and spent each fiscal year, the endowment is a permanent fund designed to be invested. The yield may be spent according to the school's need. By donating to the endowment, you increase the size of the principal invested. The endowment helps provide financial stability for the school.

What is Capital Giving?

From time to time, the board of trustees identifies major capital needs which fall outside the scope of the operating budget.

Is my gift tax deductible?

JCDS is a 501(c)(3) organization as determined by the IRS. Our tax ID/EIN is 04-3278141. Gifts of cash qualify for a charitable deduction in the year of payment as allowable by law. If you make a gift of appreciated securities you may be entitled to a charitable deduction for the fair market value of the securities and may be free from having to pay tax on any capital gains. We recommend that each donor consults with their tax advisor regarding the potential tax advantages of any gift.

What is the best way to make a gift to JCDS?

There are many ways to make a gift to the school. You may give by check, credit card or online. Gifts of appreciated securities can have beneficial tax implications for the donor. In addition, there are also a variety of ways to help ensure JCDS's future through a bequest, charitable gift annuity, or charitable trust. Please contact the Development Office at 617-972-1733 with any questions you may have.