Frequently Asked Questions

JY Joyner already has a PTA which fundraises and which supports enrichment and extracurriculars. Why does the school need a separate Foundation?

The Foundation and the PTA work hand-in-hand and complement each other, but they are governed separately and have distinctly different missions and purposes. The PTA primarily focuses on the day-to-day running of the school and coordinates school needs covered under the NC PTA by laws, whereas the Foundation focuses more on enhancing the academic educators and IB environment and is able to do more long-term planning. PTA is not able to fund teacher salaries, only the Foundation can do this. The J.Y. Joyner Foundation was organized in the 2015 school year and is a legal 501(c)(3) IRS non profit organization.

What does the Foundation do?

The Foundation raises money and prioritizes expenditures to benefit Joyner students, teachers, and the school as a whole. We consider both on-going and new needs in deciding how to allocate funds.

Specifically, the Foundation raises and spends money to support the teachers (salary, supplies, and materials) In particular, last year we lost 1.5 Spanish teachers. JYJ is an IB Spanish magnet school. We must protect the integrity of the curriculum of Joyner, by making sure we can afford our teachers. Wake County reduced our teacher salary budget last year and we lost these teachers. Our curriculum and educators help make JYJ the special school it is.

Why does the Foundation and its donors need to pay teacher salaries? Isn't that why I pay taxes?

Soon, the Foundation will raise money and pay the contract salaries of JYJ's Spanish teachers. Wake County cut the teacher salary budget for JYJ and we lost 1.5 Spanish teachers. In today's world, soliciting parent and community contributions is a reality for all public schools. That is especially true at JYJ, which has extra programs and needs that are required as part of the Spanish curriculum.

Who manages the Foundation?

The Foundation is managed by an elected Board of Directors of 3 voting members, and as non voting members, the school principal and a current PTA officer. The current parents are identified and recruited from the school community and elected to two-year terms.

Are Foundation meetings open to the public?

Yes. The Board depends on participation and feedback from the JYJ community to set priorities and develop effective ways to raise money and support the school. There are meetings during the school year, which are announced via e-mail, Wednesday folders and the Principal's Sunday phone update. The annual meeting in May every year includes Board member and officer elections, presentations from programs that have received funding from the Foundation and a review of the current and proposed budgets.

How does the Foundation raise money?

Primarily the Foundation raises money through (a) donations from JYJ families and friends and (b) proceeds from special event fundraisers. Local businesses and individuals, as well as JYJ teachers and students. The Foundation also seeks grants from local and national foundations and sponsorships from local and national businesses.

Are there any fundraising and administrative costs?

Yes. Almost all of the fundraising expenses are directly related to putting on the special event fundraisers (food & beverages, rentals, printing & copying, etc.) and vary depending on attendance/tickets sold. Administrative costs include, tax preparation & postage, and supplies. These fundraising and administrative costs total less than 20% of the Foundation's budget.

Who contributes to the Foundation?

Parents, family members, local businesses, neighbors, and even teachers and students contribute in a variety of ways, gifts, grants, sponsorships, events, and more, not to mention contributing thousands of volunteer hours.

If you know of a company that is interested in being a corporate sponsor for the Foundation, please let us know!

Why should I contribute to the Foundation?

To benefit our children, our neighborhoods, and our community. As parents, or as friends and supporters of the school, we all want the JYJ experience and our children's education to be the best they can be. Contributing to the Foundation helps maintain a school that enhances the community.

How can I contribute to the Foundation?

You can contribute funds to the Foundation by mailing a check or donate using a credit card via PayPal or directly through the site. Soon we will also have a direct deposit option so a monthly donation can be given easily and conveniently.

Checks, made payable to 'JY Joyner Foundation' can be sent to JY Joyner Foundation, 2300 Lowden Street, Raleigh NC 27608.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. The J Y Joyner Foundation is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All gifts are tax-deductible to the full extent allowable by law. Every gift will be gratefully acknowledged in a timely fashion.

Do you need volunteers?

Yes, Absolutely! If you want to help with fundraising, grant-writing, marketing, strategic planning, or other needs, contact board members today: