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Frequently asked questions

What is the Hillel Fund?

The Hillel Fund is Hillel Academy’s annual giving program to help bridge the gap between tuition and the actual cost of a Hillel Academy education. Hillel Fund dollars are integral part of Hillel’s annual operating budget and are essential to Hillel’s sustainability and growth. Your dollars support financial assistance; innovative integrated curriculum, encompassing Jewish studies and Hebrew; arts enrichment; physical education; individualized instruction that challenges and supports all types of learners; and innovative technology initiatives such as the Maker Lab.

Why not just raise tuition?

We wish to keep tuition as low as reasonably possible to be sensitive to the financial considerations of all our families. A charitable contribution to the Hillel Fund also provides donors with an income tax deduction on their gift to the extent allowed by law.

Does my gift really make a difference?

Yes! Every donor to the Hillel Fund is unique and each gift is unique and each and every gift, no matter of size, makes a difference.

Who can contribute to the Hillel Fund?

Anyone and everyone!

What is an employer matching gift?

Matching gifts are gifts that an employer gives to an educational institution as an employee benefit by matching the employee’s gift on a 1:1, 2:1 or even 3:1 basis. This is a wonderful way to increase your gift to a higher giving level. Be sure to check with your Human Resources Department to see if your company has a matching gift program.

How long do I have to pay my pledge?

Donors may pay their pledges on an annual basis anytime before June 30th (the end of Hillel Academy’s fiscal year). Installment giving provides a way to maximize your larger gift by scheduling contributions in smaller and more convenient increments.

Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes! Gifts to Hillel Academy are tax deductible to the fullest extent provided by law. Please speak with your accountant or tax preparer for details.

What is the Gift of Gold?

Any Hillel Fund donor is a designated Gift of Gold donor and falls into a giving distinction or category (e.g. gold, ruby, sapphire, diamond, etc…). The Gift of Gold annual gala is a community celebration supporting the Hillel Fund. On this night, the Tampa Bay Jewish community comes together to celebrate Hillel Academy.

What additional ways can I give?

In addition to gifts made by cash, check or credit card, gifts to Hillel can be made to specific funds that support financial assistance, the music program and through gifts of securities and planned gifts. For more information about these types of gifts, contact the Development Director, Wendy Leigh at development@hillelacademytampa.com or (813) 963-2242.