Top 10 Questions about the Evergreen Fund

Does my gift really make a difference?

Where exactly does my gift to the Evergreen Fund go?

How often should I expect to be contacted by the Evergreen Fund?

I already gave this year, why are you contacting me again?

Is giving money the only way to be involved with Loyola?

If I cannot make a gift right now, what are my options?

Why should I participate in my class Reunion Gift Campaign?

How will my gift be recognized?

What is the most convenient way to make a gift?

What is a matching gift?

1. Does my gift really make a difference?                                    

Absolutely. And, yes, this is the most frequently asked question.  Gifts to the Evergreen Fund range from $25 to more than $1,000.  When all is complete, each gift is one vote of confidence for Loyola and one more notch in Loyola's donor participation rate.  Regardless of the amount you give, you are having an impact on today's students and making a sound investment in the future of Loyola and the value of your own degree.

2. Where exactly does my gift to the Evergreen Fund go?

The Evergreen Fund helps to offset the College's expenses not fully funded by tuition income - in other words, it's essential.  Your gift helps to:
- Increase the pool of available financial aid
- Create new faculty openings and opportunities for faculty research
- Fund new and upgraded technology and learning equipment
- Support new curriculum initiatives such as Alpha, Service Learning and Catholic Studies

3. How often should I expect to be contacted by the Evergreen Fund?

The Evergreen Fund's fiscal year begins on June 1st and concludes on May 31st, operating along side the College's regular academic year.  Throughout the year, we attempt to reach our alumni through a series of mailings and phoning sessions. Once you make a gift, you will not be contacted again for another gift to the Evergreen Fund.

4. I already gave this year, why are you contacting me again?

In many cases, an individual may have given in the Spring, which means they gave during the current calendar year, but not in the new fiscal year which began on June 1st.  Since we have kicked off a new campaign, we are most likely seeking your renewed support.  If you like, we can try you in the Spring, or we can take a pledge now and send a reminder at your convenience.

5. Is giving money the only way to be involved with Loyola?

Making a gift each year is one of many ways to stay involved with your alma mater.  Of course, your participation makes a difference.  You can also update yourself by reading the quarterly Loyola magazine and attending events in Baltimore or through Loyola's regional chapter programs.  There are numerous volunteer opportunities as well, including Regional Boards, Alumni Boards, class chairs and committees.

6. If I cannot make a gift right now, what are my options?

You can very easily make a pledge now, and then request that the College remind you or charge your credit card at a specific time in the future.  It is always advantageous to make a pledge when you are contacted.  That way, the College seeks fulfillment of the pledge according to your wishes (you do not receive anything in the meantime) and the College can better predict the impact of the funds raised through the Evergreen Fund.  Pledges can be made with a Phon-a-Thon Associate during the Phon-a-Thon, On-Line or on an Evergreen Fund pledge card.

7. Why should I participate in my class Reunion Gift Campaign?

Reunion years are a very exciting time to be involved with Loyola, and most likely you are feeling pretty nostalgic about your experience here.  This is a great way to show your enthusiasm and get together with your classmates to present something very special to the College during Milestone Reunion Weekend.  If you have not given in the past, your Reunion Gift Campaign is also a nice way to start a new tradition of giving.

8. How will my gift be recognized?

First, you will receive a receipt confirming your gift for tax purposes and a thank you from Loyola's President, Father Linnane.  Each Fall, we also publish our annual Report of Gifts, which summarizes the results of the previous year's campaign and lists all donors to the College.  Your name will be included on listings of donors from your class at various points during the year.

9. What is the most convenient way to make a gift?

Online, of course!  Loyola's website is fast, accurate and secure for making a gift to the Evergreen Fund.  The gift will be processed quickly and a receipt will be forwarded within 36 hours.  While on line, you can also take advantage of the available alumni news and services.

Taking a call this fall from one of our Phon-a-Thon Associates is another way to give.  Loyola's Phon-a-Thon begins in September.  By speaking with a student, you can make your gift on the phone using your credit card or make a pledge and schedule a payment.  In addition, it's a wonderful way to receive some personal updates on Loyola and ask any questions you may have.

10. What is a matching gift?

A matching gift is a contribution to Loyola College by your employer.  If your organization has a Matching Gift Program, then they will match, or possibly exceed, your annual gift to Loyola.  This is a unique way for some donors to increase the impact of their personal gift.  Each company accepts requests for a matching gift differently -- some require a form, others have an 800 number, and some have an on-line form.  It's best to begin with your Personnel Office or to contact The Evergreen Fund at (410) 617-2560 for more details.  Once you complete the form or make the call, Loyola will do the rest.