Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

  • A group of Lancaster Catholic High School supporters were asked to evaluate the Advancement department in 2012. This started conversation around offering an independent foundation as an alternative to Diocesan established vehicles for philanthropy.

  • Yes- The Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit with Federal EIN 47-1923684 with no outside influence.

  • The Foundation asks for a minimum endowment contribution of $25,000 to establish a named fund. This amount can be in a lump sum or contributed over a period of years according to the donor wishes.

  • Once a fund (general or named) has the minimum endowment threshold of $25,000, the fund is eligible for distribution of interest and capital gains.

  • An endowment base of $25,000 is the standard for nonprofit foundations to ensure distributions will make an impact on a yearly basis.

  • The Foundation solicits blind grant applications from member schools. The blind application prevents any conflict of interest in the decision-making process.

  • Once grants are completed, the Foundation will provide information to the fund agent of the details.

  • Yes – Each school has a general fund where interested donors contribute any amount as often as they like to help a particular school(s).

  • Yes – Any amount donated of $250 or more will receive a formal donation letter from the Foundation suitable for income tax preparation. Your cancelled check is suitable for any amount under $250 per IRS rules.

  • Designated funds at CEF help us provide long-term, sustainable tuition assistance for Lancaster Catholic High School and select elementary schools within the Lancaster Deanery. These funds distribute a portion of the fund’s balance in the form of an annual grant to a student enrolled in a deanery school.