Kari opened that is was a great Nov for giving.   Received 1.55 to date from 91 donations.  

MM updated that he applied for a competitive grant - awarded for retaining, recruiting & developing teachers - received 46 k.   This grant will go toward capital campaign which ups our money received to 1.6 ! 

David's services will end this month.  David stated that he would like to stay involved & up to date with school happenings and we can always reach out to him.  The committee thanked him for all of his expertise and support. 

Paul questioned about a snail mail solicitation to bridge the 90k we need to reach goal.   

David stated that we did a new prospect list solicitation in November. We also did a Giving Tuesday electronic push.   Committee decided to go forward with another snail mail push.  MM to draft a letter and Paul to help edit it to get out this month.  

David updated that we still have some grants pending.  We were denied by Community Foundation, however we have started to build  this relationship.  On 12/12 executive director of chamber coming for a tour.  Reached out to a contact for Harold Grinspoon.  Waiting to hear back.  A Boston-based Foundation - waiting to hear from as well.  Also working on a donor wall concept for the new school.   

Modesto added that he reached out to Jennison Foundation and will meet prior to end of calendar year.   

Paul shared thoughts on a few contacts he would like to introduce to the school in the near future.   

Cap Campaign has been a priority first half of year but what will goals be for second half? 

Kari shared 3 focuses : 

1. Donor engagement & cultivation

2. Building Opening

3. Continued Friend-raising 

David added that communications & PR is important too.  New school is also a great accomplishment for the city.  

MM suggested a planning session to think through milestones we want to tackle, with deadlines.   This is a great opportunity to bring more awareness of LA to not only donors but families and teachers as well. 

Building Opening Brainstorm : 

MM - soft opening for VIPs (late spring/early summer).  Grand opening : after the first month of school. Big deal event.  Invite : political players , donors , staff, trustees,  Founding families ?? (need to flush this out as founding families didn't graduate from LA), current students (drumline!!), student speaker reflecting.   

Kari - suggested perhaps multiple celebrations to be inclusive to all. 

Next step : MM and Kari to draft a broad stroke draft of what building opening calendar schedule would look like /

Paul added  key players in area/ neighbors should be invited .  MM to compile this list.  

Kari added - local colleges should be included as well (AIC , STCC, HCC, ELMS).