The fifth annual Day of Giving is on April 8 and celebrates the generosity of the community.

The tradition started just a short five years ago as a way to celebrate Colorado Mesa University’s (CMU) 92nd birthday by giving back to all the student clubs and associations on campus. Funded by the CMU Foundation, it works as a fundraising opportunity for students involved in extracurricular activities. 

This year celebrates the 97th birthday of CMU and the biggest Day of Giving celebration yet. 

Students and academic departments are able to present a case with photos and videos of their activities to show donors they are worth the investment. 

It presents a living, breathing campus to the donors instead of an association title and brief description. By presenting faces, stories and students, donors are able to get a deeper feel for who they are supporting. 

Last year, the Day of Giving raised enough money to fund 40 TRIO scholarships, fund research for the Health and Sciences Department and money for multiple trips and competitions. Each year more academic departments, student clubs, organizations and anybody on campus that has a need for funds presents on the Day of Giving. 

Each organization is contacted by the CMU Foundation; they set a goal for how much they want to fundraise from $300 to $5,000. Then they send in photos or a video pitch explaining what the organization does. 

“It is such a great way to promote your club and earn money for them. It is a fun event on its own, the donors make it even more amazing. The community that gives back to students means so much to all of us,” Phi Alpha Delta President Terra Head said.

It is an annual event celebrating the birthday of CMU by giving back to all the student clubs and associations on campus. 

You can find out how much was raised by visiting the University Center on April 8.