FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Alburnett Community School District Foundation?

The Alburnett Community School District Foundation was incorporated in 2002 as a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, charitable organization. Its purpose is to provide greater educational, social and recreational opportunities for the school, students, faculty and members of the communities within the Alburnett Community School District. The ACSDF works closely with the School District, but is its own separate entity. The ACSDF Board which includes interested community members. Officers are elected to 3 year terms. To learn more, visit the About Us page and the People page.

When does the Foundation meet?

The Foundation Board meets on the 4th Wednesday of each month. The public is invited to attend. To find out when our next meeting is or to see minutes from previous meetings, see the Meetings page.

Why is it called the Martin Complex?

Larry and Mary Lou Martin made a very generous donation to the Alburnett Community School District Foundation which has allowed the Foundation to purchase 25 acres just south of Alburnett on N. Alburnett Road. The Martins believe very much in the community and the school, wanting greater opportunities for both.

What is the scope and cost of the Martin Complex Development?

What is the "Back the Track" Campaign and how long will it last?

The ACSDF Board is currently focused on developing the existing 25 acres of the Martin Complex. Phase 1 of the project included a walking trail, which was completed in Fall 2005. Phase 2 of the project includes and all-weather surface track, and football practice and game fields. Softball fields, a pavilion and a playground are slated for future completion. The estimated total cost of Phases 1 & 2 is $992,000. For details Click Here

Phases 1 & 2 of the Martin Complex Development will be completed through fundraising efforts of the Back the Track Campaign. Fundraising began in December 2005.

Who owns the Martin Complex land now and who will own it when the project is complete?

The Foundation has paid off a loan to purchase these 25 acres.

Will work progress while funds are being raised?

Yes, work will progress on the project as funds are donated to the Back the Track Campaign. Continuing financial obligations, such as loan payments on the initial 25 acres of the complex, will always be funded prior to proceeding with the next item in the order of construction.

What order will the project be completed in?

Progress is already being made on this project. The walking trail and tree planting were completed in Fall 2005. One of two practice ball fields were completed in Summer 2007 along with a parking lot. Grading for the track continued in 2008. For the lasted updates, see our Projects page.

While costs have been estimated and a budget established for the total project, the Foundation is currently working on a more detailed project plan. The completion timeframe of any component of this project is obviously affected by the level and timing of donations.

How do I donate to the Foundation?

Donations can be made in two ways:

    • Print out and complete a Pledge Form (located at the bottom of this page) and mail your donation to:

Alburnett Foundation

PO Box 193

Alburnett, IA 52202

Are donations to the Foundation tax-deductible?

Yes. The Alburnett Community School District Foundation was incorporated in 2002 as a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, charitable organization. A receipt will be provided to all donors at year-end. Please notify the Foundation if you need documentation at any other time.

Is there a recommended donation level?

We are encouraging those who can to participate in the "Buy a Meter" plan. The donation for each 8-lane meter is $310. This is based on the total cost estimate of $992,000 divided by 3200 meters. Donors are encourage to make a 3 year pledge for 8 meters, which is $2480 or just under $69/month. Our pledge form allows you to designate your donor level and set up flexible automatic withdrawals from your bank account. The Foundation recognizes that each individual or family must determine the level of donation that fits their budget. All donation levels are welcome and appreciated by the Foundation.

Will my employer match my contribution?

A matching gift is a great way to increase your support of the Alburnett Community School District Foundation. Persons who work for (or have retired from) certain companies will match employee donations to non-profit organizations. To find out more, please visit our Employer Match Page.

How can I be assured that the money I donate will be spent for the purpose(s) intended?

The Foundation is committed to using all donor-designated funds toward the completion of the Martin Project. All money donated to the Martin Complex Development is held in a Foundation account for that purpose. Spending from this account is overseen by the Foundation Board and its Treasurer. You may also make a designated gift to the Foundation's Scholarship fund.

What donations have you received to date for the Back the Track Campaign?

What is the Foundation's policy on donor recognition?

Fundraising has been progressing steadily toward its $992,000 goal since the Campaign formally began December 2005.

    • As of March 2006, 30+ families and individuals have pledged to the Back the Track Campaign for a total of $23,000.
    • As of May 1, 2006, pledges totaled just over $50,000.
    • During May 2006, Farmers State Bank and the Neighbor family made a generous pledge to the Back the Track Campaign in the amount of $150,000.
    • As of May 21, 2006, pledges totaled $203,704.
    • As of September 23, 2006, pledges totaled $214,886.
    • As of September 17, 2007, pledges totaled $229,300. There have also been several donations-in-kind over the last year - these donated or low-cost products and services significantly contribute to meeting our completion goals. When donations-in-kind are included, the Back the Track total comes to $244,300.
    • As of December 31, 2011, pledges totaled over $400,000.

Donors who do not wish to be recognized should notify the Foundation. For donations made with a Pledge Card, please check the box titled "Check Here if you prefer your name be excluded from donor recognition lists". For donations made online, please include your request in the box allowed for special instructions.

How can I volunteer my time and talents to Foundation projects?

Persons filling out a pledge card may check the box titled "Check here if you are interested in helping as a Foundation volunteer. There is also a space to fill in how you would like to donate time and/or talents. You will then be contacted by a Foundation member. Otherwise please contact a Board member.