Support student success during Day of Giving, March 26

Grand Valley’s annual Day of Giving returns on March 26, inviting the entire campus community to make a gift toward the programs, scholarships and resources they are most passionate about.

Among the most immediate ways to support students is the Dean of Students Emergency Fund, which helps Lakers facing unexpected financial hardships. This year, Len '94 and Cristy Van Popering are challenging the entire country to get involved: if donors from all 50 states make a gift to Day of Giving, $2,500 will be unlocked for the fund. View the current map of donors across the U.S.

Jennifer Drake, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, is also adding some friendly competition between GVSU’s colleges with her challenge gift. She will give $500 to the college with the most individual donors and $500 to the college that raises the most money.

“Our annual Day of Giving is a powerful reminder of what makes Grand Valley so special: We invest in our students and in the future we are building together,” Drake said. “I'm grateful to join in by offering two challenge gifts, and I hope others will be inspired to participate.”

Donors can also track campaign progress, discover additional matching and challenge gift opportunities, and play the official Day of Giving video game, Louie Kart, on the Day of Giving website . Every gift, at any amount, adds to a collective effort that funds real change for students.

More ways to participate:

• Students, faculty and staff can stop by Day of Giving celebrations from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on March 26 in the Kirkhof Center lobby, Seidman Center lobby and Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences lobby. Attendees can enjoy games, food, giveaways and more. 
• Stop by Uccello’s downtown Grand Rapids location on March 26 from 4-8 p.m. for a fundraiser. Present a screenshot of this fundraiser flier when you dine-in or takeout and 15% of proceeds will support Day of Giving.

— Anna Davis is the assistant director of annual giving and digital strategy for Institutional Advancement.