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Frequently Asked Questions

Please contact us if you don't find an answer to your question below.

I received a call regarding fund-raising for the Academy. Why aren't cadets calling?

Cadets are sworn in as United States Air Force personnel at the beginning of their USAFA experience and are not legally allowed to solicit potential donors. In the absence of cadet callers, the Air Force Academy Foundation has contracted with a third-party company that offers calling services on behalf of the Air Force Academy Foundation. Ruffalo Noel Levitz, an industry leader in third-party charitable calling, has partnered with the Air Force Academy Foundation for almost a decade. The company does not receive any of the funds raised during the phonathon. In fact, all contributions are sent directly to the Air Force Academy Foundation. The callers do not work on a commission; the company is paid a set fee for its services.

What is the Air Force Academy Foundation's connection to the AOG?

The Air Force Academy Foundation is a separate legal entity from the Association of Graduates (AOG); however, the Air Force Academy Foundation does provide annual support to AOG graduate programs through donations to the Air Force Academy Fund. Those gifts are intended to support AOG programs that enhance the graduate community.

Why doesn't the government pay for everything?

The government supplies the Academy with its basic funding. However, the Academy requires sustained private support to attract the best minds and provide the best educational experience. Private support does not replace the government's responsibility, but is used to expand the excellence that sets the Academy apart. Private dollars have helped fund character development seminars, international immersion experiences, internships, cadet clubs, capital projects and much more.

How will my gift be used?

Unrestricted gifts provide the Air Force Academy Foundation with the flexibility to respond to annual operational needs and priorities of the Academy, as set forth by the Superintendent. In accordance with Air Force Academy Foundation guidelines, 10% of all gifts and net positive investment gains are allocated for unrestricted use, to be used for one or more of the following purposes: cadet programs; support for the Association of Graduates and other Academy-affiliated foundations; and operations of the Air Force Academy Foundation.