Giving With ‘One Heart, One Mind’

DANBURY — Immaculate High School kicked off the first phase of its “One Heart, One Mind” annual giving drive with a recent volunteer training session at the school.

Immaculate High School subsidizes approximately 20 percent of the total cost for each student attending the school with proceeds from the campaign. The school is totally self-sufficient and saves the greater Danbury area roughly $4 to $5 million in education costs. All proceeds go directly to Immaculate High School.

Under the leadership of Ted LaBonne, last year’s drive was the most successful ever.

“We’re virtually self-sustaining,” said Mr LaBonne. “Any money donated to our campaign stays at Immaculate High School. The committee surpassed its goal of $160,000 in 2004 through the generosity of 460 alumni, parents, faculty, and friends. These gifts reflect the caring commitment to Immaculate High School’s students.”

This essential funding makes a significant difference in bridging the gap between tuition costs and the cost to educate each student. Every student receives benefits from the Annual Giving Drive, which also supports a portion of the school’s operating expenses and facilities improvements.

This year’s goal is $215,000. Campaign co-chairs Mike and Kathy Gribbin of Bethel are managing this year’s group of volunteers. “This is a golden opportunity for people who believe in Catholic education,” Mike Gribbin noted. “These funds, combined with all other fundraising activities, help support the operating budget allowing Immaculate High School to offer financial and scholarship awards to students, as well as support the regular maintenance and future improvements to the facility.

Immaculate High School is a nonprofit organization that continues to provide wider opportunities in education, the arts and athletics while meeting the need to keep a Catholic prep school affordable through its annual giving drive. All contributions are tax-deductible.

Contributions may be sent to Immaculate High School, 73 Southern Boulevard, Danbury CT 06810. Those seeking more information may call Rose Mary Fasano, development director at 744-1510. Information about the school can be found at www.ImmaculateHS.org.