Your need must be valid and contain some sense of urgency — typically either a building or renovation project. Campaign goals for fraternities range from $500,000 to as much as $4 million. Prospects will only donate if the project is clear, attainable, and desirable. Also, the alternatives must be less desirable.

Features that are becoming standard in Chapter Houses:
• ADA compliant
• Fire safety systems
• Live-in advisor / house mother suite
• Educational space
• Computer networked
• Modular furnishings
• Bedroom suite concept (if possible)
• Individually controlled heating and air conditioning
• Security systems
• Street appeal
• Recognition plaques
• Chapter room / library
• Outdoor decks
• Catering kitchen

Tax-Deductibility Vehicles
Local Educational Foundation
You will have local control. Requires setup costs, annual reporting and volunteer support.

National Foundation
Convenient, already-established vehicle for accepting tax-deductible gifts. National organizations sometimes take a percentage of each gift and have limitations on distribution. You have little control over investment.

University Foundation
Convenient, already established vehicle for accepting tax-deductible gifts. Cooperation is rare. Generally take a percentage and place limitations.

What Will Qualify as Educational Use
• Library
• Network technology
• Group study room / conference room
• Study rooms
• Educational storage
• Drafting /graphic arts areas
• Computer room
• Operational costs of these areas