FORD & ASSOCIATES has more than fifty years of experience providing development (fundraising) services for elementary and secondary schools. Our Services for Charter Schools are designed to supplement the efforts which may already be in place, provided by parents and others who may be helping to raise important but smaller funds through various “grassroots” activities, i.e. gift wrap, bake sales, magazine sales, car washes, etc.

Whether your school is a startup, a conversion, or a special state charter school, our development services include the following:

1.  Governance

Working with the governing board and/or administration to help members better understand the need for additional fundraising. The funds raised will supplement the budget already provided by the public school system. We will help with the creation of a Development Committee if necessary. This may include regular meetings with the governing board.

2.  Strategic Planning

Creating and working with an ad hoc Strategic Planning Committee to determine the school’s long-range needs, as they relate to facilities, financial aid, faculty salaries and the academic program.

3.  Annual Giving Fund

Assisting with the establishment and management of an annual giving fund, in which parents and others are asked to participate every year, regardless of their gift size. The unrestricted gifts can be used to enhance the overall academic/arts/ athletic program. We would work with a committee to implement and manage the program, as well as determine how the funds would be used.

4.  Major Capital Campaign

Using the results of the Strategic Planning process, assisting the school to implement and manage a major fund raising campaign to raise significant funds, which will be used to:
a.    build new or renovate current facilities,
b.    create an endowment for financial aid, faculty salaries, and
c.    provide additional programs.

5.  General Development Counsel

We will work with the board and administration on determining how to manage ongoing development issues. Organization, communication and participation will be three major considerations. If necessary, we will assist with the identification of a professional staff member who can work the administration and board.