Endowment

An endowment fund is money that remains intact in perpetuity and is carefully invested to earn income that is used to support the school. Endowment serves as a hedge against the uncertainties of the economy and is critical to Swain’s long-term financial stability.

Donors can make contributions to the endowment fund in any amount. The unrestricted endowment fund supports the school’s operations and endowment income is used where it is most needed. Donors may prefer to designate their contribution to endowment for a specific objective such as student scholarships, teacher enrichment, or specific programs such as art, music, athletics or drama.

All independent schools strive to build strong endowment funds to insure their future financial health. Swain’s current endowment fund is valued around $500,000 and the Trustees have set a goal of $2 million by 2013.

A dedicated group of investors have pledged major gifts to Swain’s endowment through The D. Esther Swain Legacy Society. Doubling the number of Legacy Society members is the target for the next two years.

A Gift for the Donor

Quite often, endowment contributions are planned gifts that benefit the school and offer tax advantages or income to the donor. A planned gift can take many forms such as:

• Bequest in a will or living trust specifying either a percentage of one's estate or a specific amount
• Memorial gifts in honor of an individual
• Charitable remainder trust
• Charitable gift annuity
• The Gift of a life insurance policy
• A remainder interest gift of real estate

Donors who choose to honor The Swain School with a planned gift take part in shaping the school's future. If you would like more information on planned giving, please contact Judy Skinner, Director of Development at 610-433-4542, ext. 118 or development@swain.org or your tax advisor.

The Wonderful One Percent Gift

Each year Swain parents are given the option to contribute one percent over and above their tuition to Swain's endowment fund. Since 1996, more than $200,000 has been contributed to endowment through this program.