What is Light the Way and why is it important? Light the Way is the name of the campaign to support the recently launched St. Thomas More Catholic School Annual Fund. With the rising costs of education and general operating expenses, the need for an Annual Fund was critical to the financial stability and longevity for the school.
What is the connection to May Crowning? May Crowning has been a longstanding and cherished tradition at St. Thomas More Catholic School. Many schools and organizations support their Annual Fund around Giving Tuesday in November. However, our school’s May Crowning event felt like an especially meaningful day for our campaign launch. On this day, we honor the Blessed Mother Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. She is the shining example of perfect faith and humility, entirely committed to glorifying God. She carried the light of Jesus into this world, and continues to reflect His light and truth to all of God’s children. It is this same light that we strive to nurture in each of our students every day by helping them grow into the person God is calling them to be.
How is this different from Fund Run and auction fundraising efforts? Most often, our two main fundraising events—Fund Run and the annual auction—have a specific area that funds are being secured for, such as facilities and the Tuition Assistance Program. Unlike restricted gifts, Annual Fund donations are unrestricted, allowing us to direct resources where they are needed most—from classrooms and faculty support to faith formation and service opportunities.
How long does this campaign run and what is the fundraising goal? The introduction of the St. Thomas More Catholic School Annual Fund officially launched on May 7, 2026, the date of our school’s May Crowning. Light the Way is the name of the campaign to support our Annual Fund. Moving forward, each May there will be a reminder of our Light the Way campaign and its importance to the school’s vitality through supporting the Annual Fund. While the focus will be around our May Crowning event, the Annual Fund remains open for unrestricted donations year round. Our fundraising goal for the inaugural launch of the Light the Way campaign is $50,000 during the month of May. However, the Annual Fund will remain open year round for one-time and recurring donations in support of the school.
Does my gift make a difference? What is the best way to support the Annual Fund? All donations, no matter the amount, make a difference. Each and every gift impacts our school and its students. While one-time gifts are gladly accepted, committing to a monthly, recurring donation helps pave the way for long-term financial stability for the school. Donations can be made securely here.
How will I know my gift was received? An email notification will confirm your gift was received. If you made a recurring donation, you'll also receive an email with a link to set up an account you can use to manage your gift.
Is it safe and secure? Online gifts meet the same security standards as online banking. We are required to maintain PCI Compliance, which is a set of requirements designed to ensure that all organizations that process, store, or transmit credit card information do so under the tightest controls and security possible in order to reduce the potential for fraud. Your financial information is encrypted and is never stored at the school level.
