Banner Friends and Families,
I pray you and your children are enjoying time together as we celebrate Thanksgiving this year. We have so much to be thankful for and I am encouraged by all that God continues to do at Banner as we partner with families in the education of their children.
As I am sure you are aware, Banner is a non-profit organization and therefore, relies on the generosity of folks donating to help cover the cost of capital projects. We were able to move onto the new campus last year and while it has been wonderful to have our own space, Chesterfield County continues to require Banner to make extensive revisions to the originally approved plans. These changes included a septic system change that increased the cost of the system by over $300,000 and stormwater run-off changes that resulted in over $50,000 of additional costs so far!
These are just two examples of the many added expenses that have been incurred as Banner moved to our new campus. God has been faithful and every year, we have had donors give to help off-set capital costs that occur. I have recently had a couple of folks ask me to share the budget numbers so they can be praying toward their end of the year giving. Therefore, I would like to share the overview of our current budget.
It is important to note, that the greatest expense that Banner incurs every year is faculty and staff salaries. Our faculty and staff are so amazing, but what you may not know is that they are paid 50 to 70 percent of what they could make in public education. These folks are dedicated to the calling of Christian education and I am so impressed at their dedication to Kingdom work and specifically to our children. I say all of this to share that the Banner Board does everything within their power to keep the costs of tuition as affordable as possible. Most years, the tuition does cover the overall cost, but with these added costs this year, we are in need of raising some money to cover the difference in the budget.
This year's projected overall revenues, including tuition, are $2,237,988 and with the added expenses, the projected overall expenses are $2,461,918. This leaves a deficit of just under $225,000. Therefore, instead of setting a goal to raise money for the end of the year giving to cover a capital project, I am asking that you consider a gift to help Banner cover some of the capital projects we have already incurred. I am happy to share that a Banner grandparent has already contacted me and is donating $40,000 towards this goal!
This is a great start and I would like you to consider how you can join in. It would be amazing if every family were able to contribute something, whether it be a small gift or a large one, having 100% participation would be incredible. I would also ask that you share this request with friends and family (especially grandparents) that may also consider giving an end of the year gift. During this season of Thanksgiving, I want you to know how thankful I am for each of you. Together, we are helping train up the next generation of leaders that will have the opportunity to impact our culture and advance the name of Jesus. Happy Thanksgiving!
Furthering His kingdom,
Dr. Burkett
