Wolves give back for 2022 Giving Day

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

March 1 marks this year’s Giving Day, or “Howl from the Heart,” Western’s annual day of giving. During this 24-hour period, students, faculty and alumni come together in solidarity to make a positive impact on the Western community.

Giving Day has aided in drawing in tremendous donations for foundations, scholarships and various programs and departments since its establishment in 2016 at Western.

In 2021, the university was able to raise over $170,000 in donations from Giving Day with a total of 820 gifts. 

This year, Giving Day is expected to be bigger and better than ever. The goal for 2022 is to raise $250,000 in support of scholarships and programs. 

Those wishing to donate and make an impact can do so in various ways. 

Throughout the month of February, Western is encouraging employees to participate in Giving Day by sharing their monthly goal of $5,000 in donations through payroll deductions. Staff and faculty wishing to contribute can enroll in payroll deduction by completing the employee deduction form, found on the WOU Foundation webpage.

Graduating seniors, specifically, can participate in Giving Day while also leaving a lasting legacy. Seniors are encouraged to leave their mark by donating at least $20.22 to a program or department of their choice at Western. These gifts can be made in honor or in the name of current faculty members. In thanks, seniors who donate on Giving Day will receive a “Howl from the Heart” lapel pin to wear on their graduation gown.

The Alumni Challenge, which takes place from 12 – 2 p.m. on Giving Day, offers a custom “Howl from the Heart” campfire mug for the first 50 people to make a gift of $50 or more.

Clubs and organizations are also contributing to “Howl from the Heart.” The Foundation’s Finance and Planned Giving Committee have pledged to meet up to $1,500 in gifts made towards the Fund for WOU, Western’s unrestricted financial support system for students and faculty alike. In addition, Interim President Jay Kenton has pledged to double the amount by matching the amount received through payroll deduction by up to $5,000.

Whether one lives on or off campus, everyone is encouraged to contribute. Donations can be made online through the WOU Foundation’s webpage at wou.edu/give or through participation of planned giving at woufgift.org.

After donating, make sure to share the good deed on social media by using the hashtags #WOUgivingday and #WolvesGiveBack.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu