Giving Day will be a chance for Ducks to help Ducks

Alumni from across the globe are preparing to show their love for the UO during the third annual #DucksGive, an annual day of giving which this year will take place May 17.

The fundraiser benefits the university’s many schools, museums, libraries and departments.

“There is such positive anticipation leading up to Giving Day,” said Kelly Menachemson, executive director of the University of Oregon Alumni Association. “While amazing work is done daily on this campus, this collective effort brings so many units and individuals together towards one remarkable goal: a whole day of giving. ... It’s truly meaningful to see.”

The event coincides with University Day, a campus beautification event that dates back to 1905. This year, volunteers will plant extra pollinator flowers and plants on the west side of campus.

Students, faculty and community members are all welcome to participate simply by showing up on Collier Lawn between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. No pre-registration is required.

While the campus gets a makeover, alumni will make online donations to the university. With more than 20 different schools, colleges and departments, finding a worthy beneficiary is easy.

Gifts will be combined to release more than $600,000 from more than 70 matching or challenge gifts from generous donors creating a big benefit to students at the UO.

Individuals can encourage other Ducks to participate by signing up to be an ambassador. That lets people track the difference they are making and even compete with other UO alumni and friends to see who can help most.

By Abby Keep, University Communications