VIU Giving Tuesday campaign helps students reach for their dreams

University’s tenth annual campaign runs from November 14 to 28, 2023.

When Vancouver Island University (VIU) student Sarah McClelland faced some unexpected living expenses last fall, she thought she would have to put her education on hold.

The Bachelor of Education student went to the Financial Aid and Awards team to explore options. That’s when she learned about the VIU Access Fund, which provides just-in-time supports to students so they don’t have to pause their studies. For McClelland, it meant being able to pay her bills that month.

“It made sure I was stable enough to continue school and instead of stressing out about finances, I was able to focus more on my studies,” she said. “It makes you feel really good about yourself and about the world, that there are still people willing to help and to make it so other people can strive to be the best they are.”

Giving Tuesday is a global movement to encourage people to support worthwhile meaningful causes during a season that features holiday sales and consumerism. This year, VIU’s Giving Tuesday campaign runs from November 14 to 28, 2023. In addition to the VIU Access Fund, the VIU Foundation is highlighting special projects that professors are initiating to enhance student learning. 

“Our goal with the campaign is to help our students achieve their dreams and make their educational journeys a little less stressful,” said Richard Horbachewski, Associate Vice-President of External Relations and Executive Director of the VIU Foundation. “Your donation – no matter how big or how small – has a huge impact not only on a student’s financial situation. It also encourages them to continue in their studies, knowing someone in the community is supporting them.”

Starting November 14, the VIU Foundation is offering matching donations to help make your donation go farther. One hundred per cent of all donations go to the chosen fund.

Gifts can be made online by credit card on VIU Giving Tuesday.

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Media Contact:

Jenn McGarrigle, External Communications Manager, Vancouver Island University

C: 250.619.6860 | E: Jenn.McGarrigle@viu.ca | T: @VIUNews

The VIU community acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nation on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.