UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN River Falls

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Online Giving Day a Huge Success

May 4, 2015--The University of Wisconsin-River Falls Foundation hosted its first ever online giving day, the Falcon 5K, on May 1. Set with a goal of $5,000 based on results at similar universities, the Falcon 5K received 167 gifts and raised $18,585 in just 12 hours.  

"The response to the Falcon 5K was quite incredible," said Chris Mueller, UWRF Foundation president and UWRF assistant chancellor for University Advancement. "At a time of extreme budget challenge in Wisconsin, this is an enthusiastic show of support from our alumni, employees and friends to show that a UWRF education matters. We are so thankful for the vote of confidence."  

The event was developed by UWRF Foundation Annual Giving Coordinator Sarah French as a way to promote support for UW- River Falls. It was hosted completely online with all communications happening electronically via social networks and with each hour in the day having prize or matching gift opportunities. Three matching gift hours were sponsored by UWRF Foundation Board of Director members.  

"The primary objective of the Falcon 5K was to reach new and younger donors," French said. "While more than 25 percent of gifts came from those who graduated in the last 10 years, we received gifts across all age ranges, including 36 gifts from new donors to UWRF."  

UWRF employees contributed 42 percent of the gifts, with an average UWRF employee donation of $40.50, French said. Itʼs a statistic that shows the dedication of the faculty and staff to their workplace, she said.  

"Amidst a time of challenge for the university, the UWRF community came together to show their support of campus and to show that this great university is a place worth investing in!" French said. 

All gifts were designated through the Falcon Annual Fund to specifically support strategic initiatives including funding for academic programs, classroom and laboratory instruction, and international programming. None of the contributions will be used for regular operating purposes of the university or the Foundation. 

For more information, email sarah.french@uwrf.edu or call the UW-River Falls Foundation at 715-425-3505.

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