Questions and Answers about the 2007 Annual Fund Drive

What's the purpose of the Annual Fund?

Many people have the impression that the state provides for all of the college needs, but this simply is not true. The state does not provide enough funding for scholarships, work/study, childcare, counseling, other student aid, or changing technology. Technology is a rapidly changing field and our equipment must be up-to-date for our graduates to successfully compete in the job market. State funds are simply not sufficient to meet the growing needs of our students.

What kinds of scholarships does the Annual Fund provide?

Needs-based scholarships - Last year there were 3,370 financial aid awards totaling more than $3.5 million. In addition to this financial aid assistance, scholarships were also awarded through the foundation in excess of $68,000. Without your contributions, it would not have been possible to help all of these students.

Academic scholarships - Provides awards for academic achievement. A panel, appointed by the President, selects these students based upon the student's academic success.

Incentive scholarships - Incentive scholarships are awarded to each GED or Adult High School graduate to help pay for the first college-level course they take at the college.

Dream Scholarships - These tuition-guarantee scholarships are awarded to promising, "first-generation" sixth-graders as an incentive to complete high school and enroll in college. Since the program's inception in 1989, 732 students have been awarded Dream scholarships to attend CCC&TI.

Many people think attending a community college is inexpensive. Why do students need scholarships?

Compared to private colleges and the state university system, community college is a bargain, although not an inexpensive bargain. Tuition alone averages $648 per semester. The cost of tuition, fees, and books is steadily climbing with books sometimes costing as much as tuition. We must also take into account that most of our students are adults who are supporting their own families; many are single parents. In some programs, such as nursing, it is impossible to maintain a job and successfully complete the required academic workload. Many students are unable to attend school without financial assistance.

What other student aid does the Annual Fund provide?

Childcare is an important form of financial aid. Childcare may cost from $98-$138 a week per child. For a single mother, meeting childcare costs is an impossible endeavor. Through Foundation funding, the student's daycare provider receives $65 per week per child [maximum aid is for two children per eligible student].

Student emergency assistance makes funds available on a loan basis for students who have financial emergencies. For example, a student might need to buy gas so he can attend class.

Student personal counseling is provided for students who have a personal or an emotional crisis. These funds pay for visits to a professional counselor.

Work/study jobs pay students to work in meaningful positions on campus, providing job training and financial assistance to eligible students.

How much has the Annual Fund raised for the college over the years?

Since the Foundation began conducting campaigns in 1983, the organization has contributed more than $3,000,000 for scholarships and other college needs. Scholarships and student aid are always a priority.

Who contributes to the Annual Fund?

Strong support comes from the faculty, staff, college trustees, Foundation directors, college retirees, alumni, individuals, businesses, foundations, and industries throughout Caldwell and Watauga counties. Last year, 961 supporters pledged over $340,000. Faculty and staff pledged $28,000. This high level of participation demonstrates strong commitment by those most closely involved in the work of the college. These numbers testify to the enormous growth and support we have experienced since the first campaign in 1983 that raised $20,000 by contributions from 194 donors.

How are donors acknowledged?

All donors receive a letter of thanks and a receipt is given for gifts over $250. The names of all donors are listed in various college publications, the graduation program and on the Donor Recognition Placard in the hallway of the college administration buildings on both the Caldwell and Watauga campuses.

Why do volunteers give their time and money to this cause?

People are always saying that, "Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute is the best thing to happen to Caldwell and Watauga counties, to our people, and our economy." The college affords people the opportunity to improve the quality of their life and to provide for their families. We must have an educated and well-trained population if we are going to be competitive in today's economy.

How does the drive work?

The campaign goal this year is $300,000. More than 100 volunteers in Caldwell and Watauga counties will again visit past contributors and potential donors, while a team of approximately 20 volunteers will work on the college campus. With your participation and the capable leadership of Hunt Broyhill as Annual Fund Drive Campaign Chair, we are expecting another banner year!

How can people make a contribution?

Donors may send tax-deductible contributions to:

The Foundation of Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute
Post Office Box 600
Lenoir NC 28645

or

PO Box 3318
Boone, NC 28601

For additional information, please call 726-2260 or 264-7670 ext. 2260