Barretts PTO Bobcat Fund FAQs
Every Student Counts. Every Gift Matters.
The Bobcat Fund Campaign is an annual appeal for financial contributions. The PTO will use the donations to enhance the award-winning educational experience of every Barretts student and faculty member.
Instead of hosting multiple, time-consuming fundraisers where families are asked to repeatedly solicit donations from extended family and community relationships, the PTO provides this avenue for general donation to support the mission of the Barretts PTO.
We encourage each Barretts family to secure a donation to this fund annually. To allow grades and grade-specific classes to promote participation, each student has an individual fundraising page for Bobcat Fund participation. We encourage families to customize each child's page.
Why a Bobcat Fund?
Often parents strongly prefer making or securing a financial contribution directly to the school’s PTO instead of participating in multiple fundraising activities throughout the school year.
The Bobcat Fund Campaign is an annual appeal for financial contributions. The PTO will use the donations to enhance the award-winning educational experience of every Barretts student and faculty member.
Instead of hosting multiple, time-consuming fundraisers where families are asked to repeatedly solicit donations from extended family and community relationships, the PTO provides this avenue for general donation to support the mission of the Barretts PTO.
We encourage each Barretts family to secure a donation to this fund annually. To allow grades and grade-specific classes to promote participation, each student has an individual fundraising page for Bobcat Fund participation. We encourage families to customize each child's page.
Why a Bobcat Fund?
Often parents strongly prefer making or securing a financial contribution directly to the school’s PTO instead of participating in multiple fundraising activities throughout the school year.
How is the Bobcat Fund money used?
The PTO will use the Bobcat Fund to support a variety of initiatives. In recent years, the PTO has invested in numerous school upgrades, repairs, and enhancements. We also fund the following:
- Stipends per school year for each teacher to purchase necessary classroom materials
- Class T-Shirts
- Ways and Means grants for teachers
- Grade Level Parties
- Grade Level Field Trips/Events
- Community Events (Veteran's Day Assembly, STEM Night, Barretts Blast, Abilities Awareness, etc.)
- Principals Fund
- Annual Events
- Landscaping
- Bobcat Backpack Program
I already pay school property taxes. Why should I donate to the Bobcat Fund?
Bobcat Fund-style donations are essential to deliver the high-quality programs and activities at Barretts. Financial contributions by Barretts' parents fill the educational gap caused by inadequate county funding. This additional parental support is a distinguishing factor between Barretts and surrounding elementary schools in the area.
Why doesn’t the PTO sell products like other schools?
When you give to the Barretts PTO Bobcat Fund, ALL of the money goes directly to the PTO. When students and parents sell items such as gift-wrap, the fundraising company takes a significant cut of the profits.
Is 100% participation by families important?
Yes. One hundred percent participation in the Bobcat Fund shows our commitment to the school, its teachers and staff, and our children. While donations differ in size, each donation has the same impact on participation. We encourage families to reach out to extended family and community relationships for this once-a-year support opportunity.
How do I know how much to give?
There is no set rule as to exactly how much to give or secure from a donor. We only ask that each family secure the best donation they can for the Bobcat Fund.
I can’t give at this time. How can I support the Bobcat Fund?
We encourage all Barretts families, as they feel comfortable, to reach out to extended family or utilize their community relationships in order to secure a donation. All financial donations to the PTO’s Bobcat Fund make a difference. We know that every family’s financial situation is unique.
Who can donate to the Bobcat Fund?
Anyone can donate to the Bobcat Fund…parents, grandparents, other family members, neighbors, friends. Even Barretts alumni! Every donation counts, and every donation is appreciated.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. Barretts Elementary PTO is classified as a public charity and has been granted 501(c)(3) non-profit status. Our tax ID number is available upon request. Your donation is fully tax-deductible as provided by law. No goods, gifts or services of any value will be received in connection with this donation. For tax information please contact our VP of Finance, Jenny York.
Does my donation qualify for Corporate Matching?
Many corporations have matching programs for their employees, retirees, and board members that will double and in some cases triple the portion of your donation. This extra support is very much appreciated. Contact your employer to determine if they will match your donation and to find out the guidelines for obtaining matching funds.
How do I make a gift to the Bobcat Fund?
Giving to the Bobcat Fund is easy. Fill out your Bobcat Fund form on the OPEN FORMS page, and you can make an online payment.
Are restaurant fundraisers part of the Bobcat Fund? Why should I attend them?
The local restaurants that we partner with provide us with a portion of their sales for the night. 100% of that money goes directly to the PTO. Yes, you should attend. They are a great way to bring the Barretts family together!
Questions? Email us at: barrettselementary@gmail.com.
