Fifty years ago, we became the newest class of Adlai E. Stevenson High School graduates. Our impact on each other and the Stevenson community has endured across  over the decades and miles. 

As we prepare to celebrate 50 years as proud Stevenson Alumni, let's ensure that our impact lives on for years to come. The Class of 1975 Legacy Campaign is a special opportunity for our classmates and lifelong friends to create a lasting legacy by supporting future generations of Patriots. This legacy will provide a meaningful financial gift on an annual basis in perpetuity. 

With a collective goal of $30,000, we will establish the Class of 1975 Endowment Fund with the Stevenson Foundation. This endowment will support SHS students facing financial hardship through the Foundation's One Family program. Together, we can help ensure these students have access to a full range of opportunities offered by SHS. Please consider supporting this worthwhile cause by making a donation to help us reach our financial goal. Thank you for your time and consideration of the foregoing.

What is the goal of the Class of 1975 Legacy Campaign?

The Class of 1975 aims to raise $30,000 to establish an endowment for the Stevenson Foundation's One Family program, supporting students in need.

What is the Stevenson Foundation?

The Stevenson Foundation is an independent non-profit organization that empowers students to reach their full potential and brightest futures. The Foundation functions separately from Stevenson High School, offering programs and support that tax dollars either cannot cover or are not intended to support.

What is the Foundation's One Family program?

The One Family program provides vital assistance to students whose families face financial hardship. The program offers support in areas such as food insecurity and other basic needs.

How will the endowment funds be distributed?

The Class of 1975 Endowment Fund will be invested in accordance with the Foundation’s Investment Policy, the oversight of which will be provided by the Foundations Finance Committee. The annual earnings will be used to provide ongoing support to students in need through the One Family program. The principal amount will remain intact to ensure long-term assistance.

What types of needs will the money support?

Funds will support a range of needs including food, basic necessities, clothing, and emergency financial assistance for SHS students and families in challenging circumstances.

How can I contribute to the campaign?

You can make a donation online via the campaign's designated webpage, or by sending a check to the Stevenson Foundation with a note specifying the Class of 1975 Giving Campaign.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes, all donations to the Stevenson Foundation are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. You will receive a receipt for your contribution for tax purposes.

Can I make a gift of appreciated securities or stocks?

Yes, the Stevenson Foundation accepts gifts of appreciated securities, including stocks. Donating stock can provide additional tax benefits, such as avoiding capital gains tax. To make a stock donation, please contact the Stevenson Foundation for transfer instructions and consult your financial advisor to understand the tax implications. Be sure to specify that the gift is for the Class of 1975 Reunion Giving Campaign.

Can I donate using a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) or Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from my retirement account?

Yes, donations can be made using a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) or a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from a retirement account. Simply direct your DAF or RMD distribution to the Stevenson Foundation, specifying that it is for the Class of 1975 Reunion Giving Campaign. Be sure to consult with your financial advisor or tax professional to ensure compliance with all applicable tax regulations.

Will donors know who has contributed and how much has been raised? 

Yes, we will regularly update donors on the progress of the campaign. A list of contributors will be shared (with permission), and we’ll provide updates on the total amount raised throughout the campaign.

Can I donate to the Class of 1975 Legacy Campaign anonymously?

Yes, you can choose to make your donation anonymously. When donating online, simply select the option to mark your gift as anonymous, and it will only be visible to the Stevenson Foundation, the organizer of the campaign.

If you’re making a donation by check or a pledged gift and wish to remain anonymous, please notify Ashley Bunzol at the Foundation to ensure your donation remains confidential.

Can I set up a recurring donation?

Yes, you can choose to set up a recurring donation to help us reach the $30,000 goal over time. Simply select the recurring donation option when making your gift online or contact the Stevenson Foundation for assistance.

What happens if the goal of $30,000 is exceeded?

If more than $30,000 is raised, the additional funds will be added to the endowment, increasing the yearly disbursement for the One Family program, allowing us to provide even greater support to those in need.

What if I’m unable to donate a large amount—can smaller donations still make a difference?

Absolutely! Every donation, no matter the size, contributes to reaching our goal and making a positive impact. Collectively, our class can make a significant difference in the lives of students.

Can I help spread the word about the campaign?

Yes, we encourage you to share the campaign with fellow Class of 1975 alumni and others who may be interested in supporting Stevenson students. Your help in promoting the campaign will be invaluable in reaching our goal.

Can I make a donation in honor or memory of someone?

Absolutely. You can designate your gift in honor or memory of someone, and we will notify the honoree or their family of your generous contribution if you provide contact information.

Will the Class of 1975 be recognized for their contributions?

Yes, the contributions from the Class of 1975 will be acknowledged on the Stevenson Foundation’s Donor Wall, Foundation website and communications, and at reunion events. Individual donor names can be shared with permission.

How long will the campaign last?

The campaign will continue through the class's reunion celebration in August 2025, with a focus on gathering contributions leading up to the event.

Who can I contact for more information? 

For more information, you can reach out to Ashley Bunzol at the Stevenson Foundation.