Broad support for remarkable regional post-secondary was on display April 24 when more than $28,000 was raised during the fourth annual Giving Day at Selkirk College.
Four priority areas were identified for Giving Day that provide wraparound services for mental health and wellness, food security, Indigenous students, and sustainability. It was an excellent way for employees, community members and corporate supporters across the region to contribute to student success. They did not disappoint. Almost 100 donations were received, contributing to a total that was a 58 per cent increase from any previous year.
“It is evident to so many in the community that Selkirk College students are an important part of our region,” said Andrew Jupp, Coordinator of Donor & Alumni Engagement. “As the cost-of-living increases, students are disproportionately impacted since they are on fixed incomes and have limited ability to earn extra funds. The priority areas that this year’s Giving Day funds go towards enhancing the physical exercise opportunities for students, hosting events with free food available for all students, addressing emergency funding shortages, and supporting student-led initiatives that reinforce the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals.”
Students had their say about where they wanted the Giving Day funds to go to. The Selkirk College Foundation provided students the opportunity to vote online or in-person for the cause that affected them most. Food security and mental health supports were at the top with 41 per cent and 33 per cent of the votes respectively, shedding light on the challenging times that learners are facing.
This year’s corporate sponsors were integral in boosting the excitement of the day by adding incentive to donate. Kootenay Savings Credit Union challenged businesses to donate $500 and matched the funds. Teck donated three dollars for every dollar directed to sustainability. Fortis supported Indigenous students by adding a bonus when 10 people donated $50 or more and Columbia Power provided additional funds once the threshold of $1,000 was met.
To celebrate the community's generosity, Selkirk College hosted a family friendly Giving Day Trail Run on April 27 as part of the Giving Day effort. A fun-focused run, walk or jog along the beautiful trails at the Castlegar Campus included 75 participants who made their way along the picturesque confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia rivers.
“It was awesome,” said 11-year old Oden Doyle who completed the five-kilometre route option in 48 minutes. “I want to do it again next year.”
Learn more about ways to support students through the Selkirk College Foundation.
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.