One Day, Dozens of Worthy Causes, Lives Forever Changed: CSU, Chico’s Giving Day

Providing a first-class education is at the heart of California State University, Chico, and the philanthropic gestures of its community continue to transform students’ education experience, and in doing so their lives and the trajectories of families across the state and the globe.

On Wednesday, March 3, from midnight to 11:59 p.m., the University will host Chico State Giving Day, the fourth annual 24-hour fundraising effort to benefit dozens of campus causes, from scholarships and student success centers to Wildcat Athletics and basic needs. With more than 85 featured causes this year, any gift to any area will count toward the University’s Giving Day totals during the drive—with special goals wrapped into the day’s events.

Vice President for University Advancement Ahmad Boura noted that Giving Day is the ideal time for current CSU, Chico students, alumni, and their families and friends to come together for a common goal.

“Giving Day offers so many opportunities to support worthy programs that make a difference for Chico State students,” Boura said. “It is also a celebration of the culture of philanthropy in this community and shows the power of Wildcats giving back. I am looking forward to another exciting day!”

Last year, more than 2,800 CSU, Chico alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends made gifts totaling over $330,000 toward 160 causes.

All activities will take place online this year, including a special live broadcast on Chico State’s Facebook page at noon March 3 with an update on the day’s progress and challenge winners, and a chance to hear from some of the featured causes.

To add some excitement and inspiration—not to mention healthy competition—members of the University Board of Governors and Tower Society are offering Challenge and Bonus Gifts as special rewards to unlock throughout Giving Day. For example, when the total number of gifts to Chico State Giving Day campaigns reaches 3,000, $20,000 will be unlocked for the Chico State Fund. Similarly, the first fund to receive 50 gifts during the 24-hour event will receive a bonus $100.

Timed challenges with bonus awards will also happen throughout the day, including a pair of “Power Hours,” social media challenges, and first and final gifts. And a “Race to Unlock the Map” has to potential to unlock $15,000 if 25 gifts can be secured from each of six regions across the country.

“Our benefactors have made these generous matching gifts because they are inspired by the widespread support of the Wildcat community over the past few years of Giving Days,” said Boura. “It’s a way for our entire community—from the students all the way to the University Board of Governors—to work together to help transform the future of our campus.”