In March, UC Merced wrapped up another successful Student Philanthropy Month, an annual tradition led by the Student Alumni Association that inspires students to engage in the spirit of giving and service. The monthlong celebration offers students a deeper understanding of philanthropy and its impact on campus and beyond.
"Student Philanthropy Month is a powerful reminder that true philanthropy isn't just about financial donations - it's about uplifting the people, the causes and the missions of the organizations we support, empowering them through our time, talents and shared commitment," said Magdalena Castaneda, director of alumni engagement.
Since 2022, Student Philanthropy Month has focused on building a culture of giving and gratitude at UC Merced. The initiative explores philanthropy through four weekly themes: leading, serving, giving and engaging. Each week features events designed to help students recognize the importance of service, leadership and generosity in building stronger communities.
'Dinner for Champvocates' Kicks Off the Month
The month began with "Dinner for Champvocates," an evening of dialogue and networking at the UC Merced Conference Center. Students participated in a Q&A with alumni who work in the nonprofit sector, gaining insights into how philanthropy aligns with personal and professional goals.
Panelists shared their post-graduation experiences and emphasized the role of advocacy and intentional community-building in their philanthropic journeys.
"They emphasized the importance of creating inclusive spaces, especially during challenging times, and reminded us that kindness and thoughtfulness toward our communities, networks and ourselves are more essential than ever," one participant said.
Following the panel, students joined a networking session to connect with alumni and one another, exploring ways to align their values with action.
Supporting Student-Led Fundraising
As part of the giving theme, students were encouraged to promote their causes through the campuswide Philanthropy Fair. Eight student organizations completed training sessions that provided tools and knowledge to fundraise effectively, including access to a customized crowdfunding page.
Throughout the month, Alumni Relations staff guided student organizations through the fundraising process, offering one-on-one support and access to a comprehensive fundraising toolkit. These resources helped student leaders develop effective campaigns to raise awareness and secure support for their causes.
Through Monday, April 21, alumni, parents, students and community members can support any of the featured registered campus organizations, or RCOs, with gifts eligible for a match of up to $1,000, thanks to the generosity of the Student Affairs Scholar Transformational Impact Fund.
This year's participating organizations include:
-American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA): Supporting the launch of BOBSat-1, a satellite program studying the water cycle and root health in the Central Valley and Sierra Nevada.
-UC Merced Archery: Enhancing safety through the construction of new stands for target bales.
-Bobcat Band at UC Merced: Expanding the instrument inventory for campus performances.
-Delta Epsilon Mu Inc.: Funding health events that feature guest speakers.
-Kairos Dance Group: Hosting a Asian Pacific Islander Festival celebrating cultural diversity.
-MissionBrain:UCM: Organizing a health workshop with a neurosurgeon from Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno.
-Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers: Supporting technical and professional development opportunities.
-Yamabuki Taiko: Purchasing traditional instruments to enhance cultural performances on campus and in the community.
Bobcats Give Back: Day of Service
As part of the service theme, students participated in the annual Day of Service at Lake Yosemite, hosted in collaboration with the Community Engagement Center and Merced County Parks and Recreation. More than 50 students and alumni took part in the event, working together to clean and maintain a location frequently used by the campus community.
The event reinforced the idea that giving back to one's local community is a powerful form of philanthropy. Participating students also earned CatLife hours for their service.
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