RVCS Development Committee Meeting
Committee reviewed River Valley Charter School fundraising and development activities including the Annual Fund status, plans to pursue charitable foundation applications, and the Read-A-Thon fundraising progress (as of Day 2: $10,417 raised). The committee also discussed potential staffing for development (part-time grant-writing support or a development director) and upcoming community events including a new-family event and a donor reception for gifts over $500.
The Development Committee met to review River Valley Charter School’s current fundraising activity and upcoming development plans. The committee noted the Annual Fund is currently ahead of last year in both dollars and number of donors, though gift flow has slowed since the initial surge; they identified the need for a more efficient system for sending thank-you cards to volunteers next year. Committee members highlighted effective tactics from this year’s work — notably a training dinner that clarified fundraising purpose and a volunteer appreciation event — and discussed whether the school needs a dedicated development director versus part-time grant-writing support (Karen is exploring part-time grant writing options).
The committee reviewed upcoming events and fundraising opportunities: bringing back a Custom House event in May to welcome new families combined with 8th-grade parents, considering a reception for donors contributing over $500, and initiating paperwork and relationship-building with the Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation. They agreed to reach out to Mason’s Charitable Children’s Fund with a Read-A-Thon sponsorship request. The committee received a Read-A-Thon update (dates 2/2–2/13): as of Day 2 the campaign had raised $10,417 with 2,778 total minutes read; staff involvement and a sponsor were noted, additional flyers were planned, and a celebration day is scheduled for 2/13. The meeting concluded without substantive votes on policy, budget, or appointments and was adjourned at 7:38 PM.