Foundation FAQs
What is the Foundation?
The Dolvin Elementary School Foundation (DESF) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that was established to raise funds to purchase educational programs and technologies that provide instructional value to our students and provide capital improvements to the Dolvin campus that would not otherwise be available through traditional funding from the Fulton County School System.
How do the Foundation and PTA interact?
The Foundation works hand-in-hand with the school, staff, and PTA for the benefit of Dolvin students. PTA has specific guidelines on how it can spend funds, so a strong Foundation gives Dolvin the ability to provide important resources not currently available through PTA or school budgets. We focus on enhanced educational resources, like software, devices, STEM supplies, school improvements, health & safety resources, and even the Discovery Lab special. See our Projects page for a list of past projects funded by the Foundation.
Is My Donation Tax-Deductible?
Yes! DESF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, so all donations are 100% tax-deductible. You will receive an automated receipt for your donation via email, which includes our Tax ID number. Please retain this receipt for tax purposes and contact us if you need assistance.
How does the Foundation receive funding?
The Foundation raises funds through two campaigns each year: a direct giving campaign in the fall, and a student fundraiser in the spring. Continuing the success of the past few years, the spring fundraiser this year will be the ever-popular Boosterthon Fun Run! In previous years, the Foundation also hosted a Boosterhon Bookfit Bowl, an Auction & Gala, and a Tennis & Golf event for its spring fundraiser.
Making a donation online is the most direct way to support the Foundation. Your tax-deductible donation will help us reach our annual goal, and support our mission of enhancing the Dolvin educational experience. And, there are several fun incentives available as a thank you for your support!
Don’t forget to check with your employers about corporate matching opportunities – it’s an easy way to multiply your donation’s impact!
How does Corporate Matching work?
Many employers will match donations 1:1, or even double or triple them! Simply check the “Interested in Corporate Matching” box when making your donation, then check with your HR department or employee website to find how to submit a matching request. For any questions regarding corporate matching, please email us at dolvinesfoundation@gmail.com.
What will donations go towards this school year?
The Foundation funds several resources each year! Some of our goals for this year include new educational technologies, campus/environmental enhancements, and innovative physical fitness resources. More details coming soon!
What has the Foundation most recently purchased for our students?
Here are some of the resources most recently funded by the Foundation. See our Projects page for more resources purchased in the past for Dolvin students.
Cafeteria Sound Dampeners (in progress)
Author Visit from Randi Sonenshine - May 2024
Sound Meters for the Discovery Lab
Playground equipment for each homeroom
Durable playground markings - vibrant, nonslip markings that incorporate enhanced learning opportunities, physical fitness, social/emotional intelligence, playground safety, and campus beautification - all in one project!
The Discovery Lab Special for ‘21-22, ‘22-23, ‘23-24, and ‘24-25!
Spirit Shirts for all staff and students, ‘22-23 and ‘23-24
Umbrellas, Bases, and Whiteboards for new Outdoor Classroom
Software and Online Instructional Programs like Breakout EDU, Flocabulary, Generation Genius, TenMarks Math, & GoNoodle
Nearpod Interactive Classroom Tools
How much has the Foundation raised?
The Foundation has raised over $1,000,000 since its inception in 1999, raising over $55,000 in total last school year!
Who is on the Foundation Board?
The 2024-2025 Board Members are:
President - Emily Finn
Vice President - Lauren Donnelly
Treasurer - Beth Kelley
Secretary - Christine Steinwachs
Communications - Lauren Donnelly
Direct Giving & Incentives Lead – Bebe Lee
Event Coordinator – Shannon Forrester
At-Large - Andy Stein, Jennifer Shaffer, Sung Bae
If you’d like to get involved, please contact us today at dolvinesfoundation@gmail.com. There are typically Board openings available each year, and openings are filled in the spring. Information about any openings will be publicized through the Dolvin Diary.
How can I help or get involved?
It is important to remember that many of the resources our students enjoy are not standard in all schools, so the best way to help is to donate now. With nearly 100% of our teachers and staff donating to our direct giving campaign each year, we encourage our Dolvin families to show the same support. There is no donation too small or too large! No matter the amount, we appreciate your support and truly believe that every dollar counts. Thank you for your past and continued support!
The Foundation also needs enthusiastic volunteers to help with fundraising efforts and events. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at dolvinesfoundation@gmail.com.