Scotch College

Don't let sixty volunteers down

The envelopes are waiting, the pens are poised! Yes, 'The Annual Fund is here again, hurrah hurrah.'

This year's Annual Fund launch was possibly the best yet. A tremendous sense of enthusiasm for the school was certainly evident amongst the volunteer Year Group Leaders as the Principal commented on the outstanding 1999 VCE results, campus development which includes major renovation of the Boarding Houses (this year McMeckan House, 2001 School House and 2002 Arthur Robinson) - do we hear rejoicing from the ex Boarders - and the James Forbes Academy project.

Michael Stillwell, the recently elected and incredibly enthusiastic President of OSCA, outlined the importance of the Annual Fund in assisting the school in providing funds for a wide range of projects; not only capital works but for endowment funds including financial aid for students; enhancement of leading salaries and even sporting programmes. Michael's comments were reinforced by John Simpson, the new Chairman of OSCA Annual Fund Committee.

The first school Annual Fund in Australia was established by Scotch in 1979. Each year an average of 13-14% of Old Boys respond. In some Year Groups 50% have responded in a given year whilst last year the lowest % response was achieved (2.9% - 4 people) by one year group. Amazing! (The Year Group Leader actually wondered whether he had written to members of a Class of some other school).

Leigh McGregor asked all Old Boys to at least respond with some gift. 'Involvement is what it is about', said Leigh, 'after all $20 (a lot less than that after tax) is not even half a tank of petrol.'

The New millennium challenges are to

• Increase the average % response rate to 50%
• Increase total gifts in 2000 to $150,000 (the school is 150 years old next year)
• Make no gift less than $10
• Think of pledging an amount over a period of time (say over five years)
• Assist even if you have no children or only daughters
• Think philanthropically when you receive your letter or phone call.