Every child deserves an enriching, Waldorf-inspired education
As a chartered public school, Gathering Waters is open to all and tuition-free. Our school operates with significantly less public funding than local district schools—roughly 50% less per student—and does not receive local tax or facilities funding.
Because of this, fundraising is an ongoing part of sustaining the school. Your support helps ensure this education can continue—where students are known, engaged, and learning through hands-on work and the arts.
We’re deeply grateful for every contribution—thank you for investing in the education our community values.
Gathering Waters Spring Match
Gathering Waters is at an important moment.
With more than $500,000 already pledged toward a one-time effort to strengthen the school’s financial footing and ensure long-term stability, we now have a clear path to completing the full $800,000 goal together.
The Spring Match is the final step:
raising $150,000 as a community, which will be matched dollar for dollar to reach the remaining $300,000. Every gift helps secure the education our community values.
Thank you for your support, and for being part of Gathering Waters.
Gathering Waters Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports the mission and future of Gathering Waters Chartered Public School. All donations may be tax deductible.
To learn more, visit gatheringwatersfoundation.org
Join in Our Annual Community Fundraiser Events
Our signature fundraising events are more than fundraisers—they’re moments for families, friends, and neighbors to gather, share in the life of the school, and help sustain Gathering Waters.
6th ANNUAL
Winter Craft Fair
NOVEMBER 20 & 21, 2026
Following over 40 years of community tradition, the Winter Craft Fair turns our Lower School into a bustling marketplace for regional artisans, handmade items, and a touch of seasonal magic. Families and alumni return each year for the crafts, food, children’s activities, and raffle. Each class contributes handmade items, and the whole school works together to bring the day to life. It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year, and a beloved tradition that brings our community together to celebrate the season and support Gathering Waters.
4th ANNUAL
5K & Fun Run
MAY 16, 2026
Each May, families, friends, and enthusiastic runners come together at Wheelock Park for the Gathering Waters 5K & Fun Run—a morning of movement, connection, and school spirit. Proceeds support our school as well as our athletics and movement programs, helping students stay active, confident, and strong. Stay tuned for sponsorship information and ways to get involved!
2nd ANNUAL
Online Auction
MAY 22-JUNE, 2026
Our Online Auction arrives in the height of spring with a burst of fun and community spirit. Families and local businesses contribute an amazing mix of items each year—from artwork and handmade crafts to tools, gift certificates, unique experiences, and surprises you’d never expect. It’s a wonderful way to support Gathering Waters while enjoying the thrill of bidding on treasures from across our community. Look for a call for donations in January!
Help Bridge the Charter School Funding Gap
Your gift helps sustain a K–12 Waldorf-inspired public education for families across our region.
We ask each family to consider a monthly or one-time contribution toward the $1,000 per-student funding gap. An income-based sliding scale provides guidance, and every gift—at any level—moves us toward full participation. Thank you for supporting our school community.
IN-KIND DONATIONS
Time, Skills & Materials: Practical Gifts with Invaluable Impact
Donations of books, art supplies, and especially your time as a volunteer can be just as powerful as monetary gifts. If you have an in-kind donation you would like us to consider, or are interested in bringing your professional skills to the Board of Trustees, please reach out.
“It is such a gift to have a tuition-free option for this type of school— this would have been completely inaccessible to our family had it not been for the public aspect.”
— Caitlin C., Parent of 2 Gathering Waters Students
