Chico State sports teams, public radio stations and campus trans and queer advocacy groups have one thing in common.
They all depend on funds raised during Chico State’s annual Giving Day, which is Wednesday.
“I hope to see a record turnout in number of donors, including first-time and recurring donors, strong outcomes for first-time funds, and an impressive number of overall gifts,” said President Steve Perez.
Giving Day has offered financial lifeline support to more than 170 campus communities, including academic departments, clubs, charity groups and athletic programs since 2017. Last year during the 24-hour event, the school raised $965,330, and administrators hope to exceed that this year.
In many cases, the money is a needed supplement to already strained department budgets, allowing hands-on learning opportunities, research projects and travel to events.
Since its inception, Giving Day has raised more than $4.9 million. The record was 2024, when the university raised more than $1.2 million. Perez said he hopes to break that record this year with both a higher total and number of individual donations.
“The day is all about impact,” Perez said. “Together, we can make a big difference. Find a cause or program that you care about and see how your donation can make a difference for students right now.”
Giving Day organizers urge everyone, from students to alumni, to participate. The funds raised will support a wide array of campus organizations in addition to reducing financial barriers for students through need and merit-based aid.
Past recipients include the Seufferlein Sales Program. They have a goal to raise $115,000. Donations to the program will fund textbooks, coaching and professional workshops.
The Journalism and Public Relations department aims to raise $10,000 to help refresh the Mac Lab. According to their Instagram, $1,500 can fund a display monitor, $200 can fund 1terabyte of storage and $100 can fund Mac accessories.
Giving Day groups will be tabling on Trinity Commons from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, allowing donors to learn about the fundraiser in person.
Donations can be made on the Chico State Giving Day website.
Grace Payne can be reached at [email protected]
