FAQs

Why is Tri-County Technical College conducting a major gifts campaign, and how much are you seeking to raise?

Tri-County Technical College will celebrate its 50th anniversary in the year 2012. In celebration of this Golden Anniversary and in recognition of the financial needs of the College, the Tri-County Technical College Foundation Board voted in 2007 to conduct the Foundation's first-ever major gifts campaign. Based on the positive findings of a feasibility study and the recommendation of The Clements Group, a highly reputable firm specializing in two-year college fund-raising programs, the Board set a working goal of $7 to 9 million.

As a State institution supported by tax dollars, why does Tri-County Technical College need to raise private dollars?

While it is true that Tri-County Technical College is a State institution, this does not mean that the College receives 100% funding through the State. In fact, only 23.8% of the revenue received during 2008-2009 came from the State, and those funds were designated primarily for salaries.

The majority of money the College receives each year comes from student tuition and fees, and these funds are used to pay for a large portion of the College's overall operational expenses. About the only way the College could itself fund new initiatives such as student leadership development programs, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, or others outlined in this publication would be to pass the cost on to the students through an excessive increase in tuition and fees. The Tri-County Technical College Commission and College administration consider learning to be the number one priority in all the College undertakes, making it imperative to keep tuition and fees affordable so that finances will not stand in the way for anyone who desires to pursue a college education.

How long will the Campaign last?

The major gifts campaign will span a period of five years; however, the majority of the solicitations will take place by the end of the second year. The remaining three years will be used for the purpose of collecting pledge payments and making additional solicitations if Campaign goals are not met.

Will any of my donation go toward Campaign costs?

Absolutely not! One hundred percent of your contribution will go to the area you designate. The Foundation Board views the Campaign as an investment that will result in significant long-term returns; therefore, the Board is using existing funds to pay all administrative costs.

Are you only asking for large donations to the Campaign?

No. Giving is a personal matter, and we will appreciate any amount you can contribute.

Will multi-year pledges be accepted?

Certainly! As a matter of fact, we encourage multi-year pledges. All you need to do is complete the pledge form telling us how much you would like to give each year and to which fund your gift should be credited. We will send you a reminder each year at a time that is convenient for you.

Do you accept gifts other than cash?

Yes. We encourage donors to give serious consideration to non-cash gifts such as annuities, stocks, bonds, real estate, etc. Other options include planned gifts through a will, life insurance policy, or the creation of a trust. To determine the type of gift that will best suit your personal circumstances and be of maximum benefit to Tri-County Technical College, we strongly encourage you to talk with your tax, financial, and legal advisors. It would also be a good idea to discuss your plans with our Foundation staff.

Are there opportunities for named or memorial gifts?

Most definitely! Many opportunities are available for donors to make named gifts or gifts in memory or in honor of a loved one. Classrooms, labs, conference rooms, centers, and floors have been named within College facilities, and there are many more available for naming. Donors who make a minimum investment of $5,000 also have the option to name endowments which could be designated for scholarships, technology, professional development, etc. Anyone interested in making an honorary or memorial gift is encouraged to contact our Foundation staff for more information.

Can I designate my gift for a particular purpose?

Yes. The Campaign is putting priority on the four initiatives described in this publication; however, you may designate your gift in more specific areas. Examples include professional development, athletic programs, the library, etc. All gifts will be appreciated regardless of their designation.

How will donors be recognized?

All donors will be recognized in the College's annual report. Specific gift amounts will not be included; however, names will be listed by giving ranges. Named endowments, classrooms, etc., provide donors with perpetual recognition opportunities through publications and recognition pieces located on campus.

Are anonymous gifts accepted?

Yes, we will honor any donor's request to remain anonymous; however, we are depending on you to let us know of your wishes at the time the gift is made.

Is my investment tax-deductible?

Yes. The Tri-County Technical College Foundation, Inc., maintains a 501(c)(3) status, and all donors receive an acknowledgment letter which includes verification that no goods or services were received in exchange for their gift(s).