Annual fundraising is essential to Hoban's overall success. It allows the school to fulfill its mission of providing a Holy Cross education to students from all walks of life, making it affordable, attracting and retaining outstanding teachers and providing an environment conducive for the 21st century.
The following activities generate annual support for tuition assistance. They also give the administration the discretion to earmark funds for capital improvement projects:
- The HOBAN Fund consists of all unrestricted gifts as well as endowed scholarships for the purpose of providing financial aid for families in need. Advancement staff members meet individually to request support, but there also are multiple mailings and phonathons as well as the opportunity for online giving. Donors have the opportunity to become a part of the Blue & Gold Society or join one of the other giving levels. During 2008-09, donors provided $453,673 in support through the HOBAN Fund.
- The endowment is a major indicator of the strength of a Catholic high school. It demonstrates to donors, students, foundations and corporations that the school has planned for its future by ensuring yearly income for the support of needed financial aid and special projects. Alumni, parents and friends have, in steadily increasing numbers, established endowed scholarships in the amount of $10,000 or more. The annual Endowed Scholarship Luncheon in the fall encourages benefactors to meet the students they assist.
- Event fundraising provides an opportunity for members of the Hoban community to support the school in fun, friendly venues. The annual dinner-auction, Extravaganza, is the major fundraiser provided by the parents. Its revenue is often used for special capital improvement projects. A Reverse Raffle each February helps with the overall expenses of the school.
- Students are asked to take responsibility for their education through the Student Raffle. This fundraiser is held in the fall, and the drawing takes place at a home football game. Incentives encourage students to sell more than their quota.
- Gifts-in-kind are a way for members of the Hoban community to offer their time and talents in a unique way to Hoban.
- Capital projects are announced at the discretion of the president and the board of directors with counsel from the facilities committee.