To make a donation using a credit card, please visit Paypal and click on the "send money" link. Please use the following email address on the submission form "paypal@austinjewishacademy.org."

We thank you very much for your generosity!

Donations: Annual Fund Information & Corporate Donation Information

Annual Fund

"I did not find the world desolate when I entered it. And as my parents planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those who will come after me."

Austin Jewish Academy...Supporting the Extraordinary
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE!
 
At Austin Jewish Academy Jewish values are integrated into the student's entire learning experience. And it is this experience that separates AJA from every other school in Austin. AJA is the proving ground for future leadership in our community. Our students question the status quo, take risks, understand social issues and learn how to take action.
 
At AJA our students live "Tikkun Olum" and deeply understand the importance of caring for the world. In accordance with the Jewish mitzvah of tzedakah, we emphasize a culture of giving where students in all grades are encouraged to support charitable causes by giving both their time and resources. They begin to learn at a young age the power and excitement of giving.
 
And when our students leave AJA, we believe our students will become future rabbis and cantors, Federation leadership, community volunteers and...who knows- the President of the United States. AJA students do become extraordinary adults.
 
There are many ways that AJA students, families and friends come together to show support of Austin Jewish Academy. Caring deeply about the school, our supporters offer time, talent and treasure and reflect a strong, nurturing community.
 
It is in this same spirit of tzedakah you, too, can be a part of this vital, engaging and unique institution. Investing in Austin Jewish Academy is making an investment in the future of our community. In honor of Austin Jewish Academy, we invite you to become part of the "the extraordinary" and demonstrate your support of the youth of our community...the leaders of tomorrow.
 
Annual Campaign
The Annual Fund is the single largest fundraising activity at AJA, second only to tuition as a source of revenue. Along with income from annual events such as Gala and BagelFest 5k/HEB 1k, Austin Jewish Academy depends on these gifts to help meet annual expenses, support enhancements and offer financial assistance to students who could not otherwise enjoy the benefits of AJA's educational opportunities.

Annual Funds benefit our students with such tangibles as:

You may choose to make an unrestricted gift, or specify any of the following funds or initiatives:
Scholarships
Financial aid accounts for 40% of AJA's annual budget. Gifts earmarked for scholarships will enable a diverse student body
Technology
The Abby Zeifman Technology Fund supports the technology initiative at AJA and helps defray the cost of computers and other technical equipment
Staff Development
Ongoing staff development ensures that AJA attracts the best and the brightest faculty and supports faculty growth initiatives
Library
The library is the "hub" of AJA. Current publications, visiting speakers and the most up to date materials are needed to keep the library on par with learning initiatives.
Enrichments (music, art, guest speakers, additional programs)
An annual drama production, chorus and provocative speakers and mentors add to the well rounded experience available at AJA
Diverse Learning
AJA is dedicated to serving those students that may need additional educational support in the areas of gifted and talented, ESL, and special needs.
Math and Science
Cutting edge instruction with an emphasis on the use of technology, with hands on experiences and integrated instructional units.
Hebrew/Judaics
Whether it is on signs around the building or in the echoes of conversations through the hallways, Hebrew is always happening at AJA. Beginning in the Kindergarten year, all of our students are exposed to the rich language of our people and tradition. Judaics classes at AJA are a wonderful time for students to connect with a variety of materials and subjects relating to our people and religion.
Adopt A Class
Interact with, and support the grade level of your choice. Your unique abilities will supplement the superior opportunities afforded each child such as student mentoring and classroom assistance, an added field trip, additional supplies and more. You will be invited to attend all classroom events, portfolio days, and special school "happenings."
 
Annual Giving Circles
All donations and pledges towards the 07/08 Annual Campaign will be recognized in the AJA annual report.

$30,000 and over: Visionary Circle
Donors at this level are invited to exclusive “Visionary Circle” events, and receive two complimentary seats at the annual gala and "Heavenly Helpings" luncheon. "Adopt a Class" at this level and enjoy first hand collaboration.
$18,000 and over: Head of School Circle
Donors at this level are invited to an exclusive dinner hosted by the Head of School and receive two complimentary seats at the annual gala and “Heavenly Helpings” luncheon.
$10,000 and over: President's Circle
Donors at this level are invited to an exclusive dinner hosted by the President of the Board of Directors and receive two complimentary seats at the annual gala.
$5000 and over: Scholar's Circle
Donors at this level and above have the opportunity to add to their home libraries with book selections chosen by AJA's Judaics Director.
$1800 and over: Chai 100 Club
Join your friends in support of excellence in education and values based learning. By donating at the "Chai" level and above, you join others that have made Austin Jewish Academy a priority in their philanthropic giving.
$1000: Saba V'Safta Circle
Grandparents who give $1,000 to the Annual Fund are members of the Saba V'Safta Circle. Each spring, the members of this giving society are invited to a luncheon hosted by the Head of School.
$Up to 1800
Every gift is meaningful to Austin Jewish Academy and your donations are recognized in the school's annual report.
Special Events
Don't miss out on two of the "hottest" tickets in town...the Annual Austin Jewish Academy Gala and BagleFest 5k/HEB 1k. Please call the Advancement office today for invitations and more information.
Endowments
Endowment gifts establish a legacy that supports the school for generations to come. AJA is developing endowment funds in the areas of tuition assistance, professional development, technology and programming. Gifts of $50,000 and more can be considered for a named fund. Please call the Advancement office to learn more about how to participate in an established fund or to set up a new named fund.
Planned Giving
Estate gifts in various forms are ultimate acts of tzedakah and can be a wonderful way to memorialize the donor’s name in perpetuity. Please ask your accountant or attorney how you can maximize your tax benefits while ensuring the future for Austin Jewish Academy. Please call the Advancement office for more information and to discuss your plans.

Volunteers...the "Life of AJA"

Volunteer opportunities abound at Austin Jewish Academy and it is through the involvement of our families and friends that AJA is able to promote many of its events and programs. Please call the Advancement office for more information on the following volunteer opportunities:

Nachshon- Our Families
Nachshon is the voice of our families at AJA. Providing much needed communication between faculty, staff and families, as well as classroom help and volunteer coordination, Nachshon brings together the entire parent body in support of AJA.
 
Corporate Donations
Austin Jewish Academy - Meaningful Learning, Mindful Living

Investing in the Extraordinary
At Austin Jewish Academy the values of our tradition are seamlessly integrated into the student's entire learning experience. This unique and meaningful experience separates AJA from every other school in Austin and allows AJA to be the proving ground for future leadership in our community. Our students question the status quo, take risks, understand social issues and learn how to take action.
At AJA, students live "Tikkun Olum" and deeply understand the importance of caring for the world. In accordance with the Jewish mitzvah of tzedakah, AJA emphasizes a culture of giving where students in all grades are encouraged to support charitable causes by sharing both their time and resources. At a young age our students learn the power and excitement of working to improve the world.
Surely, AJA students will be the future rabbis and cantors, community volunteers, Nobel laureates, industry leaders, real estate developers, and perhaps even the next President of the United States. AJA students can't help but evolve into extraordinary adults.

What About You
It is in this same spirit of tzedakah you, too, can be a part of this vital, engaging and unique institution. When you make an investment in Austin Jewish Academy, you make an investment in the future of our community. In honor of Austin Jewish Academy, we invite you to become part of the "the extraordinary" by demonstrating your support of the youth of our communitythe leaders of tomorrow.

Attracting Extraordinary Business Partners
Enjoy the benefits of visibility, prestige, and access to a powerful demographic while investing in the future of the Austin Jewish community.
Corporate Sponsorship benefits you and your company because it offers:

• Access to specialized mentors and volunteers
• Positive roll models
• Added resources to grow specific programs
• Enhancement opportunities including experiential education and specialists
• A diverse student population
• "Best practices" in every subject of dual curriculum

Your Investment at Work
Becoming a corporate partner of Austin Jewish Academy enables YOUR business to demonstrate its support for Austin's only Jewish community day school. Your sponsorship entitles you to membership in our elite, newly formed Corporate Advisory Council and can assist your company in networking with other extraordinary business professionals in Austin. Your business may support our general fund or any one of our exceptional programs. We will tailor a benefit package to meet the unique needs of your business.
The following is a list of several of the partnership opportunities available but are not limited to:

General Funds
Austin Jewish Academy depends on general funds to help meet annual expenses, support enhancements and offer financial assistance to students who could not otherwise enjoy the benefits of AJA's educational opportunities. All donations to the general fund are tax deductible.

Adopt A Program

Scholarships
40% of AJA's families receive financial aid. Gifts earmarked for scholarships will enable a diverse student body

Technology
The Technology Fund supports the technology initiative at AJA and helps defray the cost of computers and other technical equipment

Staff Development
Ongoing staff development ensures that AJA attracts the best and the brightest faculty and supports faculty growth initiatives

Library
The library is the "hub" of AJA. Current publications, visiting speakers and the most up to date materials are needed to keep the library on par with learning initiatives.

Enrichments (music, art, guest speakers, additional programs)
An annual drama production, chorus and provocative speakers and mentors add to the well rounded experience available at AJA
AJA is dedicated to serving those students that may need additional educational support in the areas of gifted and talented, ESL, and special needs.

Math and Science
Cutting edge instruction with an emphasis on the use of technology, with hands on experiences and integrated instructional units

Hebrew/Judaics
Whether it is on signs around the building or in the echoes of conversations through the hallways, Hebrew is always happening at AJA. Beginning in the Kindergarten year, all of our students are exposed to the rich language of our people and tradition. Judaics classes at AJA are a wonderful time for students to connect with a variety of materials and subjects relating to our people and religion.

Adopt A Class
A minimum donation of $30,000 enables you to interact with, and support the grade level of your choice. Your unique abilities will supplement the superior opportunities afforded each child such as student mentoring and classroom assistance, an added field trip, additional supplies and more. You will be invited to attend all classroom events, portfolio days, and special school "happenings". Become as involved as you like and experience first hand the fruits of your support.

Special Events
Sponsoring Austin Jewish Academy's high profile special events enables you and your business associates the opportunity to demonstrate your support while networking and socializing with other business leaders and community philanthropists. AJA's annual Gala and BagelFest have immediate impact on the strength of the school and all monies raised go directly back to the education of AJA's students.

Austin Jewish Academy Annual Gala held in December, attracts over 400 guests including community leaders, organization heads and major philanthropists. BagelFest 5k/HEB 1k attracts over 1000 runners and spectators and has become a major media outreach. Both events have become well known and garner significant support from the community and promise tremendous feedback for your company.

Along with general benefits, packages that reflect the specialized needs of your company can be provided.