The original project is a fitness/nature trail (Thanks to Lowe's Toolbox grant), 20 fitness equipment stations and a butterfly garden. We have raised more than enough for this project and REALLY need some extra cash to build a stage in our gym.

If the original project gets done, is it ok to move excess donations to the stage fund OR should we keep donations that were given for the trail project in an endowment fund to pay for future maintenance of the trail and equipment?

My best guess is that as long as the project gets done none of the donators will have a problem.

Put those valuable funds into your general fund and use them as needed.

Another idea could be to hold an event that would be tied into the project that you raised all of those funds for. You didn't mention the specifics as to your project, but lets say it was for a new playground (as a for instance). You could hold a Back to School party at the playground, promoting the project and all that you accomplished, showing before and afters. In this way the funds are stilling being used in relation to the original project, and you could allocate those funds for this purpose now, planning it for next year.

I don't see why you need to get the word out to evey single parent or contributor, as long as the funds are ultimately being used for the betterment of the school. Can we ask what the original project was?

Thanks,
PresidentJim

Maybe you could start a sister project to the one you collected the money for. Make it bigger and better than everyone expected, that will make the community happy and next time you have a project I am sure they will be more than generous,

While I always support the teachers, I wouldn't spend this money on "supplies" - or at least not all of it.

If it was a major fundraising effort and the community came together in a big way, I'd want to be able to point to something tangible and long lasting.

That being said, you could ask the teachers for input.

divide it up among all the teachers for class supplies. they know best what they need. and money for supplies, they can always use.

Same happened with us. I immediately went to the principal and asked her for a "wish list". There were so many things that the school needed and the custodians as well. think about it--they are there whenever you are. They clean up after your events, they prepare for your events, get you the tables, chairs and microphones you need, etc. I'm sure there are things that are needed or need replacing around the school. You may not have another time that you can make such a contribution to the school, so make it count!