Private Philanthropy Protocol

What is private philanthropy?

Private philanthropy is defined as donations from individuals, corporations, businesses or private (non-government) foundations. These donations are usually cash, but can also be in-kind (books or sporting equipment, etc.), stocks or property.

Why is a private philanthropy protocol necessary?

The Office of Development and Alumni Relations is the checkpoint for all the college's private philanthropy, both in soliciting funds and acknowledging their receipt, to ensure that:

  • The college's fundraising can proceed according to an organized plan and the priorities established by the President and the deans.
  • We avoid having different departments, programs and student groups approaching the same business or individual repeatedly, none knowing about the other.
  • We can brief potential applicants about the interests and giving history of potential donors.
  • Records of private philanthropy can be maintained, as required by the Vermont State College System, our auditors and the Internal Revenue Service.
  • Donations can be acknowledged properly, with a letter suitable for tax deduction purposes.
  • Lists of our donors can be maintained, so donors can be recognized in Johnson Views and on the Honor Role in the Library and Learning Center entryway.

 

Are you considering asking someone for a donation?

If you are considering asking a business, corporation, individual or foundation for a donation, your first step should be to inform the Office of Development and Alumni Relations and get clearance to do so.

This applies to faculty, staff, and student clubs alike, and to special faculty projects where the check would be coming to the college (and thus be considered by the donor a donation to the college, even if for a special project).

Foundation proposals need the approval of the appropriate dean, the President, and the Dean of Administration. The Alumni Office can provide the forms and guidance for this process.

Have you received a donation?

When you receive a donation, the check and a copy of the covering letter should come to the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, to be acknowledged officially, recorded and forwarded to the Business Office, which will assure that it is deposited in the appropriate Private Philanthropy Account with expenses tracked as required by the granting agency and our auditors.

Questions?

Contact Sally Laughlin, Director of Development and Alumni Relations at 802-635-1241 or Sarah.Laughlin@jsc.edu