Ducks Give, the UO’s annual day of giving, will take place May 18 across the UO campus, featuring a presidential challenge gift, scavenger hunt and an emphasis on education about the power of giving.
More than 30 areas of the university, including schools, colleges, museums, libraries and others, are expected to participate, and while there is no monetary goal this year, organizers have their sights set on exceeding past years’ metrics for engagement and participation.
“The theme for Ducks Give this year is Fly Forward, which we’re exploring through impact stories and efforts to inspire new donors that anyone can be a philanthropist,” said Quaye Meadow, annual philanthropy intern and student organizer for the event. “We want to show students how giving makes a difference while showing them that there are many ways to give.”
A highlight of the day will be a scavenger hunt, the clues of which will lead students to three areas of campus improved by giving. Students will be able to collect printed-out clues at the event and can send in a photo with them at each spot to be entered for a chance to win a Duck Store gift card.
Interactive events at the Erb Memorial Union will be held throughout the day so students can learn more about giving day, including a thank-you letter station and a “Where would you donate?” station. A student DJ and free pizza and candy also will be offered.
“We are especially excited to have Incoming President Scholz participate this year with the $10,000 President Scholz Student Emergency Fund Challenge,” said Erica Bruckner, associate director of annual philanthropy. “The Student Emergency Fund helps students cover urgent basic needs like housing and groceries and can help them access emergency funding for things like cost of attendance. It’s a really impactful way to support students, so we’ll be looking for 1,000 gifts to anywhere on campus to unlock this global challenge.”
A UO Dreamers Scholarship Anonymous Challenge of $100,000, one of the largest in Ducks Give history, also will be available. It can be unlocked with 150 gifts to any scholarship and student success funds.
To learn more and get the latest information, Bruckner encouraged visiting the Giving Day website, keeping tabs on the UO’s social media channels, and monitoring, and using, #DucksGive. To play a more active role, sign up to become a Ducks Give ambassador by completing the form on the website.
—By Monique Danziger, Development Communications