Campus Fund Drive FAQ
- What does the Campus Fund Drive support?
Your gift supports students directly through scholarships, emergency aid, the Campus Harvest Food Pantry, and other vital programs managed by the ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ Foundation.
The Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused entirely on expanding opportunities for the ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ community beyond what is included in the College’s State budget. When you give, you're not giving to your employer—you're giving through your workplace to support initiatives that help students overcome barriers and achieve their goals.
- Why is employee participation important, even if I can only give a small amount?
High participation demonstrates that ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ employees believe in our mission and are invested in our students’ success. Foundations and corporate donors often consider employee giving rates when deciding whether to fund the College. Your participation—regardless of the amount—strengthens our case for outside support.
- How do I give?
There are many ways to give:
- Pledge — Make your annual pledge by completing the pledge form and dropping it off or emailing it to foundation@durhamtech.edu. The pledge form indicates your intention to make a payment by cash, check, credit card, or payroll deduction.
- Cash or Check — Drop off your gift in the Foundation suite (5-205) or send it in via campus mail or snail mail.
- Payroll Deduction — Spread your giving out over the year with automatic deductions from your paycheck—easy to set up and easy to manage.
- Online Giving — Make a one-time or recurring gift quickly and securely through the Foundation’s giving portal.
- Planned Giving — Leave a legacy by including ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ in your estate plans. You can even designate the Foundation as a fractional beneficiary of your employer-sponsored life insurance plan.
- Gift-in-Kind — Have something tangible to donate—like equipment, supplies, or artwork? Gifts in kind can support instruction, events, or student life in meaningful ways. Fill out a Gift in Kind form to have your donation count!
- Do I need to sign up every year for payroll deduction?
No. Once you sign up for payroll deduction, it will automatically renew each year unless you request a change. If you’d like to adjust or stop your deduction, just contact the Foundation office.
- What if I want to change or stop my payroll deduction later?
You can change or cancel your payroll deduction at any time. Just contact the Foundation office and we’ll be happy to assist you.
- What is the difference between the general fund and a specific fund?
The ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ General Fund provides flexible support for the Foundation’s highest priorities, allowing us to respond quickly to student needs and emerging opportunities. Specific funds are designated for particular programs, such as scholarships, emergency grants, or the Food Pantry. If you don’t designate a specific fund, your gift will support the general fund.
- Can I choose where my donation goes?
Yes. You can designate your gift to a specific fund that’s meaningful to you—such as scholarships, the Campus Harvest Food Pantry, emergency financial assistance, your academic pathway, or other existing fund. Just note your preference on the pledge form.
That said, the ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ General Fund is our primary focus during the Campus Fund Drive because its unrestricted nature allows the Foundation to meet urgent needs, seize emerging opportunities, and provide flexible, responsive support where it’s needed most.
- Is there a minimum donation amount?
There is no minimum. Every gift, no matter the amount, makes a difference. Even a few dollars per pay period can have a lasting impact when combined with gifts from other employees.
- Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes. All contributions to the ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. You will receive an acknowledgment for your records.
- Are there incentives or prizes for participating?
Yes! All employees who give are entered into drawings for ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ swag and other prizes throughout the Campus Fund Drive. It’s our way of saying thank you for your generosity.
- How will I know my gift was received or processed correctly?
The Foundation will send you a confirmation once your gift is processed. For payroll deductions, the amount will also appear on your pay stub. If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Who can I contact with questions about my donation?
You can contact the ÆßÉ«ÊÓƵ Foundation at foundation@durhamtech.edu or call Liz McFarlane, Director of Development, at 919-536-7200, ext. 6006.
We’re here to help!