The BLSA Annual Fund Q & A

1. What is the BLSA Annual Fund and why is it important?
The BLSA Annual Fund consists of unrestricted contributions made by alumni, parents and friends that are used within the fiscal year in which they are given. Unrestricted gifts through
the Annual Fund are not earmarked for a specific purpose. The need for unrestricted gifts is critical as it allows the Association to reaffirm the lifelong connection of our alumni and help support those BLS programs not provided for in the school department budget or covered by existing endowment.

2. What are “giving societies”?
Our Head Masters’ and Independence Circles represent various giving societies that recognize different levels of gifts to the Annual Fund. The giving societies are named after head masters whose efforts helped guide BLS and the five signers of the Declaration of Independence whose actions helped shape our country. The societies recognize donors who share a spirit of loyalty and commitment to BLS and their alumni. These individuals lead the way in supporting BLS by making significant gifts that underpin the school’s ability to sustain excellence. They also support BLSA’s mission of preserving the strengths of the historic Latin School and building relationships among its alumni and friends.

3. How do gifts to the Annual Fund benefit BLS and BLSA?
Gifts to the Annual Fund support the areas of greatest need at the school. For example, in FY07 money raised by the fund supported a visiting artists series where professional performers met with aspiring student musicians, freshman and junior varsity athletics, new equipment for a science lab, student publications, and a part-time social worker and consulting psychologist to help students who need wellness intervention to enhance their personal potential and academic success. Unrestricted gifts to the Annual Fund also help the Association support traditional alumni programming (such as the annual Alumni Dinner and Reunion Weekend), regional events, networking programs and other activities designed to bring alumni closer to each other and to the school.

4. How can I help the Association meet its goals?
The Association hopes that all alumni and friends will understand the urgent need for philanthropic support and therefore participate in the Annual Fund program. Without
gifts from alumni, parents, and friends, the Boston Latin School and BLSA would not be able to provide a number of important programs for students and graduates. We ask
that you do what you can each and every year so that there is a dependable source of support for BLS and our alumni association. Gifts of any amount are appreciated and help bring us closer to our goals.

5. Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes. BLSA is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Gifts to the Association are deductible for federal income, gift and estate tax purposes under the applicable sections of the Internal Revenue Code.

6. How can I make a gift to support BLS and BLSA?
Alumni and friends can either send a check to BLSA, 101 Huntington Avenue, Suite 200, Boston, MA 02199 or make a gift via credit card (VISA, MasterCard and American Express
accepted) by calling the Association at (617) 450-0004. Interested donors can also click on
“Giving to BLS & BLSA” to make a secure, unrestricted gift online. BLSA now provides donors with the option to utilize Electronic Fund Transfers (EFTs) for their gifts.

*Previously to FY98, the term "Annual Fund" was used to describe the BLSA's total annual giving. Moving forward, the Annual Fund only includes unrestricted monies for current use of $10,000 or less per donor.


Annual Fund Giving Participation
Other Ways to Give Back - Volunteer Opportunities