Sustaining Fund
The Sustaining Fund is our annual giving campaign that bridges the gap between state funding and the true cost of providing an enriched Waldorf education. Your contribution directly impacts every student at Desert Marigold School.
Support the 2025-2026 Sustaining Fund
Join fellow families, alumni, and community members in supporting our school. Every gift, of any size, makes a difference in the lives of our students.
Why Your Support Matters
As a public charter school, Desert Marigold receives state funding for each enrolled student. However, state funding alone does not cover the full cost of providing a Waldorf education with:
- Specialty teachers for music, Spanish, handwork, and movement
- Quality art supplies, instruments, and hands-on materials
- Ongoing Waldorf teacher training and professional development
- Garden and outdoor classroom maintenance
- Field trips and experiential learning opportunities
The Sustaining Fund fills this gap, ensuring every child benefits from a complete Waldorf experience regardless of their family's financial situation.
Where Your Gift Goes
Arts & Enrichment
Music, visual arts, handwork, movement, and specialty classes that are hallmarks of Waldorf education.
Teacher Development
Ongoing Waldorf training, professional development, and mentorship for our dedicated educators.
Campus & Gardens
Maintain and improve our outdoor classrooms, gardens, and hands-on learning spaces.
Student Support
Field trips, educational materials, and resources that enhance the curriculum.
Giving Levels
Every gift matters! We recognize our generous donors at the following levels:
| Level | Amount | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Marigold Circle | $5,000+ | Leadership recognition, exclusive events, named gift opportunity |
| Desert Bloom | $2,500 - $4,999 | Special recognition, invitation to donor appreciation events |
| Sage Partner | $1,000 - $2,499 | Recognition in annual report, donor appreciation invitation |
| Sunflower Friend | $500 - $999 | Recognition in annual report |
| Seedling Supporter | Up to $499 | Recognition in annual report |
Become a Monthly Sustainer
Join our community of monthly donors who provide steady, reliable support throughout the year. Monthly giving makes budgeting easier for you and for us, while maximizing your impact on student learning.
Monthly donors receive a consolidated year-end tax receipt for easy record-keeping.
Tax-Deductible Giving
All donations to the Sustaining Fund are tax-deductible. Desert Marigold School is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. You will receive a receipt for your tax records. Arizona residents may also take advantage of the Arizona Tax Credit.
Learn About AZ Tax Credit