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A Note from the Director of Advancement

Tis the season, that magical time of year when our inboxes fill up with “year-end giving” reminders, social feeds overflow with heartwarming stories, and everyone seems to be in the mood to spread a little extra generosity. In my role as Director of Advancement, I hear it all the time – people saying they feel overwhelmed, that the constant “ask” can be a lot. And I get it. But here’s the part that always inspires me… 

I see people coming together to make a difference. I see volunteers giving their time, alumni engaging, and donors supporting the CIS mission that they believe in. I see small acts of kindness sparking big change. And I get to be the lucky person helping connect those dots, showing our CIS community that giving isn’t just a transaction – it’s a chance to be part of something bigger.

This blog is my way of inviting you into my world. Whether you give time, skills, or financial support, the season isn’t just about gifts – it’s about connection, impact, and the joy of making a difference. So grab a cup of cocoa (or coffee, in my case) and let’s explore why this time of year is truly special for giving.

The Philosophy of Giving

In my view, while all the research on giving – studies, best practices, strategic plans is useful, at its core the essence of giving is simple. To me, it is a mindset. It’s about recognizing that when we help others, we also enrich our own lives. It creates a cycle of generosity and gratitude. Giving isn’t about feeling obligated – it’s about intentionality. 

If this blog does nothing else, I hope it inspires us all to see that we each have a role to play. The idea that only large donations make an impact is simply not true. Whether through acts big or small, it’s the collective support of everyone that creates the greatest impact. It really does take us all!

But Why Do They Need Money?

It’s a fair question – and one I hear often. With so many events, volunteers, and visible activity throughout the school, it can be easy to wonder why CIS still needs financial support. The truth is, tuition and fees only cover part of the full cost of delivering the kind of education and experience our students deserve – 87% to be exact. The remaining 13% is where 

philanthropy fills the gap between what it costs to provide an exceptional learning environment and what families pay. Gifts to CIS – through the Pride Fund, Giving Tuesday, or community events like Spaghetti Supper and many more, make it possible to:

• Support financial aid and scholarships so more students can access a CIS education.
  
• Enhance academic programs, arts, and athletics beyond what the regular budget allows.
  
• Invest in our teachers, technology, and facilities to keep our classrooms inspiring and innovative.
  
• Respond quickly to new opportunities and needs that arise throughout the year.
  

In short, your gifts help CIS continue to grow, adapt, and thrive – not just for today’s students, but for future generations – it’s about keeping the mission alive and we can do that when we focus on the idea of collective giving.

The Power of Collective Giving

It’s been a while since I was in a math classroom, but one thing still holds true – multiplication always leads to a greater number. The same goes for giving! When we come together, our collective impact grows in ways no single gift could achieve alone. At CIS, there are countless ways to get involved, each one adding to the strength and spirit of our community. Our vision is to blend fun and fundraising, bringing people together to make a difference – CIS-style.

What Makes a Good Donor?

A good donor isn’t measured by the size of their contribution. True generosity stems from understanding, engagement, and consistency. It’s about aligning your giving so that it resonates with you, showing commitment, and recognizing that every contribution counts. A thoughtful donor considers the long-term impact of their support.

We Can All Be Donors

In my role I’ve learned that everyone truly has something to give. Some share their time, others their expertise, and many give through financial support – and it all matters. What’s most important is participation. Giving isn’t about how much you have; it’s about the willingness to make a difference. Each of us can contribute in our own way, using our unique talents and passions to create ripples of impact.

The Financial Advantage of Year-End Giving

From an Advancement perspective, I always like to remind our donors that year-end giving can be both meaningful and smart. For those who choose to give financially, this season offers an opportunity to align generosity with strategy. Charitable contributions made before December 31 can often be tax-deductible, helping reduce taxable income while supporting the causes closest to your heart.

But beyond the numbers, there’s something powerful about closing the year with intention – It’s a chance to turn financial planning into purposeful philanthropy, where personal benefit meets lasting impact.

Mini-FAQ: Your Giving Questions Answered

Q: Why does it feel like I’m always being asked to give?
A: CIS does rely on ongoing support to keep the mission moving forward. Think of requests as reminders – you get to choose how to give. 

Q: I can’t make a huge financial donation, can I still make a difference?
A: Absolutely. Volunteering, or even spreading the word can create a huge impact. Time and skills are powerful gifts.

Q: How do I know my giving matters?
A: Every contribution counts. Combined with others, even small actions create ripples of change. Giving is about impact, not just amount.

Q: Is there a “right” way to give?
A: The right way is what works for you. Thoughtful, consistent generosity often matters more than size.

Q: Why give at the end of the year?
A: Year-end giving can be financially strategic – tax deductions are one benefit – but it’s also a chance to reflect, give intentionally, and end the year with meaningful impact.

In Conclusion

The giving season is both a challenge and an opportunity. This is the time of year when the work of relationship-building, strategic planning, and stewardship comes together. It’s not just about asking for donations – it’s about connecting donors, alumni, and the community to the mission in a meaningful way.

So if you are woandering with every email, social post, or call, what is happening, here is a peek behind the scenes at how I approach my role in advancement… 

• Engagement: How can we inspire our supporters to give in ways that align with their passions?
  
• Impact: How can we show donors that their contributions are making a measurable difference?
  
• Stewardship: How can we acknowledge past generosity and cultivate long-term relationships?
  
• Timing: Year-end giving has both emotional and financial resonance. It’s a moment when people reflect on their blessings and consider their capacity to support others, sometimes with the added benefit of tax planning.
  

Beyond the dollars and statistics – although I love statistics – my aim is to create a culture of generosity that lasts all year. I hope that you will find your own way to give, a way that feels meaningful to you, and support a community that in turn truly values you. 

Let’s Connect

I’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about giving, want to learn more about opportunities like Giving Tuesday, the Pride Fund, Spaghetti Supper, or just want to chat about how you can get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out. 

You can reach me at: patrickf@cislions.org (573) 777-9250.

Or you can visit https://cislions.org/giving/ways-to-give/ to learn more.