How to make your Gift to Support Athletics
There are many ways to contribute. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Funds are professionally managed according to the Ed Foundation’s investment guidelines, which are available upon request. Be part of our Athletics campaign today!
A Message from Our Campaign Co-Chairs
Our youth are our future. Our educational systems are charged with the task of developing people of action, those who can ascend to responsible positions of leadership. Where better do we learn the values of commitment, perseverance, response to failure and teamwork than in athletics?
It does not happen in a day. It is a layered process that begins at the elementary level, develops at the middle school level and expands at the high school level.
We can — and we will — build PERMANENT SUPPORT for student development through school-based athletics programs. We urge you to step up and join our campaign!!
Jose Lopez
Honorary Co-Chair
- Former Samohi Teacher
- Soccer and Baseball Coach
Greg Morena
Honorary Co-Chair
- Samohi Football Captain
- Class of ’96
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the For Athletics Campaign?
The For Athletics Campaign is a community-wide effort that guarantees future possibility and opportunity for all our students. This $20 million effort includes both immediate and long-term, sustainable support for athletic programs in all Santa Monica public schools.
More than anything, the educational sports experience teaches student athletes how to commit and how to finish. It teaches them how to respect parents, teachers, coaches and teammates. Sports are about commitment, playing to the whistle, being accountable and making a difference.
What will it fund?
What are donor levels?
- Hall of Fame Gifts – $100,000 +
- MVP Gifts – $50,000 – $99,999
- All Star Gifts – $10,000 – $49,999
- Varsity Gifts – Under $10,000
Naming opportunities are available at higher levels.
Don’t youth sports already exist in Santa Monica?
Sports in Santa Monica have historically been something families have to pay for out of pocket and outside of school. However all roads lead to Samohi, where the robust sports programs are open to all, but funded in part by booster clubs and fundraisers. The Ed Foundation’s Athletic Endowment aims to change that forever, bringing sports to children in every Santa Monica public school student no matter the school, grade, or socioeconomic standing.
What is an endowment?
An endowment is an invested fund comprised of donations. Each year, interest from the fund pays for endowment goals. Earnings from this endowment will fund athletic personnel, equipment, uniforms, transportation and more for student athletes.The principle of the endowment remains intact forever. Funds must be invested for one year before accrued earnings can be withdrawn to pay for needs.
What are the benefits of sports for children?
Studies have found that participation can lead to lower anxiety and depression rates, higher self-esteem, higher levels of academic achievement and improved life skills, such as teamwork, personal responsibility, and an improved work ethic. Outside of personal benefits to the athletes, school sports bring an added benefit to the educational landscape, with increased community opportunities, school pride, and shared in-person experiences, all of which can enhance the lives of all our students.
What is the goal of the campaign and how is my donation allocated?
Our goal is to provide both immediate and long-term, sustainable support for athletics programs in all Santa Monica public schools. When someone makes a gift to the For Athletics Campaign, 20% of the gift will go to fund current athletic needs at our middle and high schools, and 80% will go to our new Athletic Endowment. This way, you are supporting students today, and also building permanent support for students into the future.