Financial Update:

• We’re in good shape. We’re down by $1k this first month, likely due to changes in classroom payments, which was not unexpected. I’m focused on closing forecasted gaps based on previous years’ data. Alastair will be connecting weekly to work through LYBNTs to address these gaps, and that work has already begun. I’ll also be collaborating with him to implement a proactive strategy to close gaps ahead of historically lower-performing months.

Sponsorship Update:

We’re significantly ahead of goal, both in dollars and in the number of donors. We have several new sponsors (at least 6). This effort closes on the 23rd. Congratulations to everyone for contributing to the positive outcomes we’re seeing this year—our collective efforts are making a meaningful difference. Thank you for your diligence at the start of a busy school year!

Much of this year’s success can be attributed to Bex’s introduction to the process, which has provided focused follow-up with prospects. The committee solicitation process has also been helpful but challenging, given the timing with the start of the school year and parental responsibilities. The committee's involvement in the calling process requires energy and oversight from Bex, and if we are to improve this, we’ll need to formalize the internal communications process.

Current status: It appears the committee may serve best as sources of new sponsorship prospects, and secondarily as solicitors, potentially in combination. I’ll be meeting with staff before the next committee meeting to bring a proposal back for a vote.

Committee Planning:

We’re moving to monthly meetings. Paige has already added the October meeting to the calendar in Board on Track. Stay tuned for dates for the following months. Meetings will continue to be held at GPCH in the conference room.

Committee member work plans are underway—hoping to finalize these before October 1st. Your proactive participation is appreciated.

Jenna won’t be able to participate this year due to personal and professional commitments. We are incredibly grateful for her generous contribution of time, even though she was never formalized as a board member. Hopefully, she’ll return next year! In the meantime, I’m seeking qualified annual fund professionals to fill her role this year, supporting Alastair and Bex with best practices. If you have suggestions, please let me know.

Upcoming Events:
**Your attendance at these events is highly encouraged and greatly appreciated**:

Donor Appreciation Reception: 9/26 (next week!) at Mediterranea; approximately 60 attendees; 7:00-9:00 PM. The program is at 7:45 PM. Jason and Alastair will make remarks.

Grandparents & Special Friends: 10/25 at the EC. Jason and Alastair will make remarks. We are seeking a grandparent to speak—please let me know if you have any suggestions.

Wonderball: Last year’s chairs have agreed to lead again. While I’m not entirely sure what all is involved now that we have a professional planner, I’ll be meeting with Alastair, Paige, and Bex to clarify the committee’s needs. I’ll update everyone at the next meeting.