Frequently Asked Questions
For a printable PDF version of the FAQ's, click HERE.
What is the Annual Employee Giving Campaign?
The Annual Employee Giving Campaign engages all LSC employees in donating to student scholarships, college programs, and emergency assistance for students and faculty/staff.
I am an employee of Lone Star College and see my work as my "donation." Why should I also make a contribution to the Foundation in support of the Employee Giving Campaign?
The LSC Foundation asks the community for support throughout the year. It is critical for the community, including foundations and our corporate partners, to know that our employees support the mission of the college and are the first ones to contribute.
Why do we need to raise money?
LSC receives tax dollars and tuition income. In today’s demanding workforce and changing economy, it is vital that LSC programs remain cutting-edge, that students study in state-of-the art environments, and that students and employees in need of financial assistance receive it. These demands go well beyond what tuition and tax dollars can provide.
How much does the Foundation give to scholarships and to the college?
In 2016-2017, the Foundation provided nearly $1.7 million in scholarships to 1,500 students, plus $150,000 in program support to Lone Star College. This is great news! However, twice that amount of students applied for scholarships, so there is still much work to be done.
Can I designate my contribution to a certain area? What about to my own department or program?
Your donation can be designated to the area of greatest need (unrestricted), student scholarships, student emergency assistance, employee emergency assistance, a planned endowment, or to an eligible program. More details are available in the brochure and on the website.
How much am I expected to give to the Employee Campaign?
Any amount counts toward participation in the Employee Giving Campaign, as every single dollar raised is important, and makes a difference.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, contributions to the LSC Foundation are tax-deductible. The Foundation will provide you with a letter for tax purposes.
How many employees give now and how much do they give?
Since 2015, LSC employees increased their giving from 8% to 47%! We also increased annual income from Employee Giving donations from $36,000 to more than $200,000.
How do my dollars help?
Student scholarships help pay for tuition, books, supplies, licensure testing and other expenses. Additionally, many college programs receive support from Foundation funds that help them to expand and innovate. Finally, both employees and students benefit from Foundation funds in times of crisis.
How can I participate in the Annual Employee Giving Campaign?
The easiest and most efficient way to participate in Employee Giving is through payroll deduction. A few simple steps in iStar and you are supporting our students! You are also welcome to donate via cash, check or credit card. Refer to your brochure or visit the website
Why is payroll deduction the preferred method of participation?
Payroll deduction is the most efficient way for employees to support the Campaign, the most efficient way for the Foundation to process donations, and it ultimately results in a higher level of support, which equals more scholarship dollars for our students! Additionally, payroll deduction is the best way for the employee to have control over the deductions, as only the employee can set the deduction amount, the goal amount, the end date, and the fund designation.
"I don’t want the Foundation messing with my paycheck!"
No worries. Human Resources and Payroll are the only departments involved in paychecks. Once Payroll deducts the amount specified for charitable giving by the employees for each pay period, they send a check for that total amount to the Foundation. HR provides a report on employees’ deduction preferences, and then the Foundation allocates the funds.
Will my donation be made public?
The Foundation maintains donor confidentiality for all of our supporters. As a participant in the Employee Giving Campaign, you are a donor and therefore your giving information will remain confidential.
Questions?
Contact Susan.Summers@LoneStar.edu or 832.813.6592.