Manchester Giving Tuesday pulls in record $75,108

Manchester University had its most successful Giving Tuesday ever. On Dec. 1, it raised $75,108 with 189 gifts.

Last year, Manchester’s Giving Tuesday raised $2,257 with 24 gifts.

To reach more than $75,000 in 2020, the effort focused on causes. The Manchester Fund received 97 donations equaling $64,400; the Athletic Department had 39 donations, for $4,500; the Students of Color Assistance Fund received 29 donations, for $3,570; and the Wendell Henry Sweitzer Memorial Fund for Students in Need received 24 donations totaling $2, 670.

There were class and individual challenges. Videos. Social media updates.

The message: Manchester University students are facing extraordinary challenges due to COVID-19. The pandemic has affected how and where they learn, how they interact with each other and with faculty, even how they walk in and out of buildings. More students than ever are worried about the financial impact COVID-19 has had on their families and how they will afford their college education. Manchester asked donors to make a difference.

It was truly a team effort, said Janeen Kooi, director of The Manchester Fund and donor relations. In fundraising, it was Kooi, Amanda Kreps, Shannon Griffith and Melanie Harmon; and advancement services came from JoHanna Young and June Haecker.

Alumni Relations support came from Kylee Moss, Mike Leckrone and Taylor Strong; and Megan Sarber concentrated on donor stewardship.

Kyle Grubbs got the word out on social media, and Dan Chudzynski led the marketing effort.

Help from students Alexis Quick, Brett Kron and Trevor Johnson included videos.

Kooi said Manchester’s incredibly generous donors make all the work more than worthwhile.

“Their generosity on Giving Tuesday will truly make a difference,” Kooi  said, “as we FAR exceeded our goal!”

The goal? $10,000.

It is never too late to give.

Our mission
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.

Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., provides vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester 

December 2020