The Whitfield Fund

Group of middle school students laughing together after school

Without widespread support from our community, the school would not have the resources needed to provide the uncompromising academic and character education Whitfield families and students expect.

Every Gift Makes a Difference
The Whitfield Fund is sustained by gifts of every size, at every level. Every gift counts, no matter the size. In fact, in 2018-2019 gifts of $10 - $999 added up to $114,198, making a direct and immediate impact on our students and school. The “Gap”: Tuition alone does not cover the cost of a Whitfield education. The school relies on charitable gifts to cover this gap of roughly $3,000 per student—and asks every family to consider making a “Gap” gift. We know that some families cannot make a gift of this size, and others can give so much more. We ask you to make a gift that is right for your family—every gift makes a difference.

When our families make a gift to The Whitfield Fund, they demonstrate to the community that they are invested in this school.

THE WHITFIELD FUND INITIATIVES

Photo of three students in a promotional ad for the 2019 Whitfield Fund Pledge Drive

Fall Campaign

Each fall, we kick off the school year by revealing our annual fundraising theme and call for mass support from our Trustees, faculty, staff, current parents, parents of alumni, grandparents and alumni. Funds raised are used within the year they are received; our fiscal year runs from July 1st - June 30th.
Trinity Hodges '18 and her family after the Class of 2018 commencement ceremony

Proud Parent Project

The Proud Parent Project is a giving program launched in 2018 designed to give our families with seniors an opportunity to celebrate their students’ Whitfield experiences. This special project is an important component of the Whitfield Fund—these stretch gifts provide critical financial support while honoring our senior class.
Faculty member Larry Hays during a senior English class

Honor Project

The heartbeat of Whitfield is its exceptional faculty and staff that dedicates itself to bringing learning to life. The Honor Project was established to pay tribute to these extraordinary men and women. Contributions are voluntary but serve as an alternative to holiday gifts for teachers; tribute gifts are collected through this fund and in part underwrite a present for each faculty member. All monies exceeding the cost of these presents are allocated to the Whitfield Fund, nearly 60% of which supports our outstanding faculty and staff.
Guests at the annual Montage auction

Montage Auction

This annual auction is Whitfield’s flagship fundraising event, and draws 250+ attendees from our school community to enjoy an unforgettable night of great food, friendship, entertainment, and incredible auction items. Funds raised at this event constitute a critical portion of our $1.1 million annual giving goal.
 
Learn more about Montage 
Table of guests at Whitfield's Trivia Night

Trivia Night

This fun casual game night is attended by Whitfield parents, alumni, parents of alumni, and friends. The event takes place on Whitfield’s campus. Proceeds from this annual event support the Whitfield Fund.
 
Learn more about Trivia Night
Members of the Class of 2019 holding their diplomas and roses after commencement

Senior Giving Program

As they approach graduation, members of the senior class are called to make a multi-year pledge in commemoration of their time at Whitfield. Launched with the Class of 2019, 32 members (44%) pledged their support of $20.19 over five years, for a total gift of $100.95 in support of Whitfield’s annual fund.
The varsity dance team during their performance at the Homecoming Pep Rally

Give STL Day

Each May Whitfield participates in Give STL Day. This 24-hour, online day of giving facilitated by the St. Louis Community Foundation is designed to ignite the spirit of giving across the region. This day is a powerful opportunity to show your commitment to our school and to inspire others to give.

YOUR GIFTS SUPPORT

Faculty

Faculty

Nearly 60% of the school’s operating budget is dedicated to salaries and benefits for our outstanding faculty, coaches and staff.
Facilities

Facilities

We are dedicated to providing our students with a safe, innovative, and dynamic learning environment.
Athletics

Athletics

Gifts to the Whitfield Fund underwrite equipment, uniforms, and resources needed to ensure our students athletes are competitive and safe.
Arts

Arts

Our robust visual and performing arts programs give students critical outlets for creativity and self-discovery.
Access

Access

With our commitment to economic diversity, more than 30% of our student body receives some level of financial aid.

FAQs

What is the Whitfield Fund?

The Whitfield Fund, our annual fund, is the collection of charitable contributions made by members of the Whitfield community: Trustees, alumni, parents of alumni, current families, friends, faculty and staff. These unrestricted gifts are the lifeblood of the school. They are flexible and available for immediate use to cover what tuition does not. Each year, contributions to the Whitfield Fund constitute at least 13% of Whitfield’s operating budget.

Why should I support the Whitfield Fund?

Gifts to the Whitfield Fund support teachers’ salaries and benefits, keep our facilities safe and clean, and strengthen the athletic and extracurricular programs that round out Whitfield’s robust academic curriculum. Gifts to the Whitfield Fund positively impact the school experience for every student at Whitfield.

How much should I give?

Tuition alone does not cover the cost of a Whitfield education. The school relies on charitable gifts to cover this gap of roughly $3,000 per student—and asks every family to consider making a gift of $3,000. However, we know that some families cannot make a gift of this size, and others can give so much more. We ask you to make a gift that is right for your family—every gift makes a difference.

Will my gift make a difference?

Yes.  Many small gifts add up to make a huge difference.  in 2018-2019 gifts of less than $1,000 added up to $114,198, that’s 2 full-time employees.

Are Whitfield families obligated to give?

Our culture of philanthropy has always been an essential part of the Whitfield experience. Whitfield's success is the result of the generosity of those who have given in the past combined with those who give today. We ask that every member of the Whitfield community embrace this spirit and make a gift that is meaningful. 

Do you count Matching Gifts?

Yes!  Many employers sponsor matching gift programs and will match charitable contributions made by their employees. Check with your human resources department to see if a matching gift program is offered through your company.  Such programs multiply the impact of your gift on our school.

Questions? 
Contact Amanda Wilkinson, 314-415-1205
Assistant Director of Development, Whitfield Fund & Parent Programs