The fourth annual Dawg Day of Giving fundraiser has accumulated over 13,000 donations to assist University of Georgia students and initiatives, establishing a new record for single-day contributions at the institution.

This 24-hour endeavor aimed for 11,000 donations and exceeded this target around 9 p.m. EDT. This marks the fourth year in a row that this fundraiser has achieved a record for single-day contributions.

“I am continually astonished by the significant support we witness on Dawg Day of Giving,” stated UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “This altruism propels our advancement as a university, and occasions like today illustrate the transformative effect that our dedicated alumni and supporters have across various segments of our campus. To each donor: thank you for your faith in the University of Georgia.”

The 13,026 donations amounted to $5.5 million that contributors designated to different areas within UGA — every one of the university’s 20 schools and colleges, along with several divisions, received funding.

“I help out at the UGA Student Pantry, and I have observed firsthand how contributions truly influence students’ lives, particularly those who may not express it openly,” mentioned Maggie Epps, a senior from Marietta studying human development and family science. “Hope is instilled into our campus when contributors invest in students’ lives. Their kindness impacts much of our daily activities and significantly contributes to why students feel that UGA is their home. I — along with my fellow students — genuinely cannot express enough gratitude to UGA donors for their support.”

Supporters from near and far contributed to Dawg Day of Giving. Among those who voiced their support for the fundraising initiative were President Morehead, head football coach Kirby Smart, and Southern Living lifestyle editor Ivy Odom, all alumni.

UGA alumni chapters also played a crucial part, with 28 chapters organizing events ranging from Southern California to London. Thanks in part to their efforts, contributions came from all 50 states and five different countries.

“When we assert that Dawg Day of Giving is a worldwide UGA celebration, we truly mean it,” expressed Jill S. Walton, UGA vice president for development and alumni relations. “I couldn’t be more delighted with the Bulldog Nation’s enthusiasm for our annual giving day. Their fervor and commitment inspire us to aspire for more — and due to their generosity, we are able to do so.”

Giving challenges motivated supporters throughout the event, offering extra funding for UGA if donors achieved specific contribution goals. In total, more than $248,500 was donated as a result of successful challenges.

Some challenges monitored donations during certain times of the day, while others focused on contributions to particular schools or college funds, and one challenge unlocked bonus donations for the student organizations that received the highest number of donations. This year saw an unprecedented number of student organizations participating in this challenge.

Overall, student involvement was once again impressive this year. Dawg Day of Giving organizers had set a goal of 1,000 student donations, and by the end of the day, they had received 1,800 and unlocked an additional $5,000 to support the Let All the Big Dawgs Eat Fund, which provides meal plan scholarships to students facing financial difficulties.

Individuals who were unable to contribute on Dawg Day of Giving can still make a positive impact at UGA. Visit givingday.uga.edu to make a donation, learn more about the event, and view leaderboards for various giving categories.

The post Bulldogs contribute 13,026 gifts in 24 hours appeared first on UGA Today.