St. Mary of Gostyn School Reveals “We Are 1 SMG” Fundraiser Details

Before the coronavirus pandemic, St. Mary of Gostyn School would hold a large annual gala in February to raise funds for special projects and/or to supplement its operating budget for the benefit of its beloved students. Now that schools are operating differently to ensure the health and safety of students, parents, staff, and faculty, fundraising is being held differently, too.

“In the past, we’d have raffles, auctions, contests, and large prizes at the Gala,” explained Terri O’Dekirk, Parish Manager and Development Director for SMG. “Since we can’t hold in-person events now, we needed a new idea. Our 2021 fundraiser, to be held the first week of March, is titled “We Are 1 SMG: A Week of Giving”. The “We Are 1 SMG” tagline is in reference to how we’re still one school, even though classes are held in person as well as in remote formats. We also want our new students to feel like they’re part of the SMG family.”

SMG’s fundraiser will be held virtually, utilizing an online donation platform. “We’re hoping to have fewer social restrictions this spring, so we may be able to offer terrific gift cards, sporting events, baskets, and other prizes at that time as incentives to spur on donations,” said O’Dekirk. “The first week of March will be the big fundraising push. We’re hoping to raise funds to help bridge the gap between student tuition and our operating costs, which have increased due to the extra technology, safety protocols, and staffing costs we’ve incurred because of Covid-19.”

While the main fundraiser will occur in March, the donation site is quietly opening during the first week of December 2020. “We have families and supporters who might want to make a donation in 2020 for the tax write-off,” said O’Dekirk. “We appreciate any support the community can offer.” For more information, please contact:

St. Mary of Gostyn School

440 Prairie Avenue

Downers Grove, IL

630-968-6155

www.stmarygostyn.org