FAQs
I already pay school taxes, why does the Wildcat Foundation need my support?
The Wildcat Foundation works with the Mechanicsburg Area School District to supplement, not supplant, programs and capital improvements that tax dollars cannot provide. For our students to continue to excel academically, culturally and athletically, we must provide opportunities to meet the challenges of the 21st century and beyond.
I don't have children in the the school district, why should I support the Wildcat Foundation?
A strong school creates a strong community. The Mechanicsburg Area School District includes the Boroughs of Mechanicsburg and Shiremanstown, and Upper Allen Township. The Foundation works to enhance opportunities for all students and their families.
Is the Wildcat Foundation approved to receive Educational Improvement Tax Credits (EITC)?
Yes. The Wildcat Foundation is approved by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to receive EITC tax credits from qualified businesses. Tax credits are awarded to businesses that make contributions to certain approved academic programs. A business may be approved for a tax credit equal to 75% of its contribution(s) to an organization, up to a maximum of $200,000 per taxable year. The tax credit may be increased to 90% if the pledge is made for two consecutive years.
Is my gift to the Wildcat Foundation tax deductible?
Yes. As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, gifts to the Wildcat Foundation (both monetary and the value of in-kind contributions) may be tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. In addition, United Way and and other federated campaign donors may choose to designate their gift, in full or in part, to the Wildcat Foundation.
May I give a gift “In Memory Of” or “In Honor Of” a friend or loved one?
Yes. The Wildcat Foundation presents an excellent opportunity to give a gift “In Memory Of” or “In Honor Of” a friend or loved one. Many parents, grandparents and friends give a gift “In Honor Of” their children or grandchildren. Donors may also leave a legacy gift by “naming” a program, facility or room to assure the family name will continue in perpetuity.
What are the Wildcat Foundation's funding priorities?
The mission of the Wildcat Foundation is to support the educational, cultural, wellness, and athletic programs of the Mechanicsburg Area School District. As such, grant funding opportunities that address these core concerns are our priority. In addition, the Foundation is committed to enhancing the endowment fund, established in 1998, to ensure the perpetuity of the Foundation and sustain programs in the future. 100% of contributions to the Foundation provide support for students and the community. Administrative costs are covered by proceeds from our special events (Wildcat Foundation Night, golf outing and Community Day).
What is the relationship between the Wildcat Foundation and the Mechanicsburg Area School District?
The Wildcat Foundation was established In 1998, in response to the needs and goals defined in Mechanicsburg Area School District's comprehensive plan. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors, which is separate from that of the school district. Foundation board members are representatives from the business community, parents and the community-at-large. The Superintendent of Schools, the President of the School Board and the President of the Mechanicsburg Education Association are permanent board members of the Wildcat Foundation governing board. These permanent positions ensure that the Wildcat Foundation makes appropriate decisions that complement the school district’s efforts.