The Riverstone Fund

The Riverstone Fund (formerly known as the Annual Fund) is the heart of our school’s fundraising efforts, directly supporting the school’s critical needs. Like most independent schools, tuition alone does not cover the full cost of a Riverstone education. This unrestricted fund bridges the crucial gap to cover general operating expenses including program enrichment, faculty and staff compensation, campus enhancements, and financial assistance.

Tuition is structured this way in order to allow the school to advance mission priorities while keeping the school more affordable and inclusive for all families. The rest of the funding after tuition is through your continued investment and partnership.

The RIS Fund is a crucial annual campaign that plays a vital role in the financial strength of our school by providing for expenses not covered by tuition. As tuition dollars meet only part, or about 80-85% of the actual cost of educating a student, we need to raise additional funds each year to bridge this gap. Riverstone International School is a non-profit, independent organization that operates without financial assistance from any public sources. The participation of our alumni, faculty, families, and students in fundraising efforts is a powerful signal to other potential donors, such as corporations and foundations, about our collective commitment to the school’s success. Every gift, regardless of size, makes a difference, and together, we strengthen our school community.

The amount you choose to invest in The Riverstone Fund is a personal decision, and every gift—no matter the size—represents a meaningful commitment to our school’s success. We encourage you to support the fund at a level that feels right for you and your family, remembering that participation is just as important as the amount. Your investment helps bridge the gap between tuition and the true cost of educating each student, ensuring Riverstone continues to provide an exceptional education. Your participation shows unity and strengthens our community, fostering a shared commitment to the school’s continued excellence. Together, we make a lasting impact.

• Yes, your gift to the Annual Fund is tax-deductible.
  • Riverstone International School is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which means your contribution may qualify for a charitable deduction on your taxes. We recommend consulting with a tax advisor for specific guidance based on your individual situation.
• Unlike tuition payments, which are not tax-deductible, your gift to The Riverstone Fund may qualify for a charitable deduction on your taxes, offering you a financial benefit while also supporting the school. In essence, your tax-deductible contribution helps reduce the pressure on tuition increases, ensuring that the cost of a Riverstone education remains manageable for all families while maintaining the high quality of learning, exceptional educators, and programming that defines our school.

The Annual Fund runs from March 3 to April 25, and we encourage you to make your gift during this campaign period to maximize its impact. Be on the lookout for class challenges and match opportunities that further enhance and amplify your investment.

Ways to give include: cash, check, credit card, DAFs, stock donation

Stock donations are a wonderful way to support The RIS Fund while potentially benefiting from tax advantages. Donating appreciated stocks, bonds, or other securities can allow you to avoid paying capital gains tax on the appreciated value, while still making a meaningful contribution to Riverstone. These types of gifts can also be deducted at their fair market value, which may result in additional tax benefits for you. If you are considering a stock donation, please contact [email protected] to receive the necessary instructions for transferring securities.

DAF gifts are an excellent way to contribute to The RIS Fund while benefiting from tax advantages. Through this platform, you can easily check out with your DAF, making the process simple and efficient. DAF contributions may qualify for a charitable deduction in the year they are made, while giving you the flexibility to direct the donation to Riverstone at your convenience. If you need assistance completing a DAF donation, please reach out [email protected]

Pledge gifts to The Riverstone Fund are a great way to support Riverstone over time while still contributing to the campaign’s immediate goals. When you make a pledge, you commit to donating a specific amount, but you have the flexibility to fulfill that pledge over a period of time—whether within the current school year or in installments. Pledges help us plan for the future and ensure steady support for our programs, and they still count toward our Riverstone Fund totals. Please reach out to [email protected] directly to discuss a plan that works for you.

Yes - during checkout, there is an option to set up your recurring gift and how often you would like your gift to occur.

Hosted socials during The Riverstone Fund provide an opportunity for community building and meaningful conversation. These gatherings are designed to bring families together to share experiences, strengthen connections, and discuss how we can leave a lasting legacy at Riverstone. Whether you’re a new, current, or alumni family, attending these dinners allows you to engage with other families about their passion for Riverstone and understand how your support impacts the future of our school. We are grateful to the families hosting these events and creating a welcoming space for connection.