FAQ's
Giving & Tax Questions
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Absolutely. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 27-1363414). Cash gifts are generally deductible up to 50% of adjusted gross income when you itemize on Schedule A.
How is my donation used?
Your gift will support scholarships, programs, facilities, and will be used where its needed most across the MCCS.
What giving options do you accept?
Online credit-card gifts, mailed checks, stock or mutual-fund transfers, real-property donations, and planned gifts (bequests, charitable gift annuities). See our Ways to Give page for details.
How much does it take to create an endowed scholarship?
A minimum commitment of $25,000, payable over five years, establishes a fund that awards scholarships from its investment earnings in perpetuity.
Student Aid & Tuition
How affordable are Maine’s community colleges?
Tuition, at time of writing, is just $96 per credit—about $4,156 for a 30-credit year.
How many students receive financial aid?
Roughly 78% of full-time learners get grant aid that reduces or eliminates tuition. Many scholarships are offered through the Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges.
Do graduates stay in Maine?
Yes—92% of employed alumni build their careers right here, strengthening local communities.
Foundation Basics
What does the Foundation do?
We raise private funds to expand scholarships, modernize labs, and launch high-demand programs across Maine’s seven community colleges.
How is the Foundation related to MCCS?
MCCS runs the colleges; we fuel them with private philanthropy. Think of us as the bridge between donors and classrooms.
How do I get Foundation updates?
Subscribe to our quarterly Building Maine’s Future e-newsletter or follow us on LinkedIn. See sign-up in footer.
Who can I contact with other questions?
Email info@maineccfoundation.org or call 207-321-6151. Our office: 54 Lighthouse Circle, South Portland, ME 04106.