Lakeshore Elementary's Annual Fund

Every Family, Every Year!

The Annual Fund is the first and most important thing you can do on your child’s campus.
Your gifts matter. Your participation matters.

Questions and Answers

What is the Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is a yearly fundraising initiative that kicks in where the school’s general operating budget leaves off, paying for all the “extras” that go into a full school experience. Each year, a goal is set and the money raised is added to the budget to provide our teachers with supplies, our students with numerous enrichment activities, our technology with continuous upgrades and our facilities with solid upkeep.

Why do we need the Annual Fund? Why not just have fundraisers?

The Humble ISD Education Foundation is a registered 501(c) (3) organization. This means that we are tax exempt and operate much like a charity. One very large benefit to being a non-profit organization is that we are able to accept major donations from large corporations. Without raising taxes to extremely-high levels, we could never afford to build new buildings or upgrade our technologies or initiate costly, but worthwhile programs like building a great new playground!

How does the Annual Fund help attract corporate donors?

We are very lucky to have our corporate donors, but their generosity often comes with a catch. Namely, they require us to annually fundraise to support their investments. We must prove to them our own commitment to the buildings and programs they fund. No major company wants to invest in a program if they think it will fall into disrepair from lack of operating expenses. A robust Annual Fund shows our major donors that the parents and alumni of this community are willing and capable of taking care of the programs and educational experiences once they are created.

Why is a high participation rate in the Annual Fund so important?

All schools aim for 100% participation from their current parents, faculty and staff. High participation is looked at as a “vote of confidence” and is usually a requirement to receive grants from foundations.

How does the Annual Fund reach my child specifically?

In many ways, each student is a direct recipient of the financial assistance the Annual Fund provides. In addition to the seen effects, like gardens, supplies, and science labs, students are the beneficiaries when our teachers receive high-quality professional development or are able to be a part of research opportunities. The budget for student activities rises every time we raise a greater amount in the Annual Fund. This means our students can travel further academic competitions, which increases the reputation of the school. The students are able to participate more fully in community service projects. Dances and banquets and the arts can be funded to a higher level. Science programs and technology can be implemented and improved. The list goes on and on and the possibilities are truly endless!

What is an appropriate gift?

First and foremost, we should state that any and all gifts to the Annual Fund are welcome and appreciated. Many of our families are capable of much more, or are employees of corporations that offer matching gifts, possibly doubling your donation.

I donate to the PTO, and/or other fundraising initiatives. Am I still expected to make an Annual Fund gift?

Yes. While your Annual Fund gift does not have to be your largest, it should be the first one you consider and budget for. Other areas of giving at the school are considered “restricted”. The Annual Fund is the purest form of philanthropy available for the campus.

How can I make my gift?

Click the donate button below to make a gift online via credit card. You may mail a check to the Humble ISD Education Foundation business office to P.O. Box 2000, Humble, TX 77347-2000. Please specify the three things with your check: 1) Annual Fund 2) your school, and 3) the student’s name that should be recognized (for example, the family of Lisa Smith). Donation amounts are never shared, only the donor’s name.

Can I break my pledge into several payments?

Absolutely! We can make arrangements for you to pay your pledge either quarterly or monthly. Click on the button below to donate today!