Wednesday, February 11 through Saturday, February 14
Goal 1: Raise Parent Participation in each grade to 50% (Have multiple students? Your gift counts for each one!)
Goal 2: Raise $10,000
Join us for a special giving challenge to support Gunston’s cherished clubs! An integral part of the Gunston Experience, clubs offer students the opportunity to pursue interests outside of the classroom, the chance to become leaders, and to work with other students across grade levels, strengthening our school community. Students have found their passion, stepped outside their comfort zone, and enjoyed experiences that would otherwise not be possible without the generous support of donors.
Follow along as we explore all of Gunston’s offerings and hear from our students as they discuss how much these opportunities mean to them! If you are inspired to give, you’ll have the opportunity to write a special message to whomever you’d like – your student, a faculty member, tutor, staff, or coach and we will deliver your message of gratitude digitally the same day.
Our “My Gunston Valentine: We Love Our Clubs!” campaign has officially wrapped up, and we are blown away by your generosity. Because of you, our students will continue to have the resources they need to lead, compete, and explore their passions outside the classroom.
The Impact of Your Giving
We are thrilled to announce that 111 donors came together to raise $11,586 specifically for Gunston Clubs! These funds are vital in helping us bridge the gap for our annual club expenses. Here is a breakdown of how your contributions support our students:
- Travel, Bus Fees & Lodging $18,000
- Registration Fees $4,500
- Equipment & Supplies $4,200
- Food & Meals $1,750
- Other Club Essentials $1,650
A Major Boost for the Annual Fund
This campaign wasn't just about the dollar amount; it was about the collective strength of our parent community. We saw an incredible surge in Parent Participation in the Annual Fund across all grade levels. Take a look at how much ground we covered in just four days!
- Class of 2026: Jumped from 17% to 51%
- Class of 2027: Jumped from 39% to 64%
- Class of 2028: Jumped from 36% to 52%
- Class of 2029: Jumped from 40% to 70% (Way to lead the pack!)
- Overall Parent Participation climbed from 34% to an impressive 59%!
The Ultimate Color Swap: A White Team Victory?
The rumors are true. The legendary Green vs. White rivalry took a dramatic turn during this campaign. Everyone knows Mrs. Grabis and Mr. Lewis take their team loyalty seriously—but that loyalty had a price! Thanks to our $1,000 Ultimate Color Swap donor, Mr. Lewis has been forced to abandon his Green Team pride for a day. Keep your eyes peeled later this week to see Mr. Lewis sporting a custom White Team “Super-Fan” T-shirt decorated by the Art Club!
Fueling the Faculty & Staff
We are excited to report that all three $500 Faculty Tribute “Golden Valentines” were claimed! Because of these donors, our hardworking staff will be treated at their next faculty meeting to a Gourmet Coffee & Tea Bar, a Bagel Breakfast, and Special Sweet Treats.
Congratulations to Our Challenge Winners
We had so many winners throughout the week!
- Early Birds: Our first 20 donors were entered for the sweatshirt/bag/beanie bundle.
- Loyalty Bonus: Our multi-gift donors were entered to win the Gunston Pint Glasses.
- New Faces: Our first 10 first-time donors snagged a Gunston Docking Buddy.
- Night Owls & Lunch Breakers: Winners for the Pajama Set and Gunston Hats have been drawn!
Whether you gave $5 or $1,000, you have made a direct impact on the daily lives of our students. Thank you for making this Valentine’s week one for the record books!
With gratitude,
Team Gunston
