Join the #ParklandGivingDay Celebration
Special event at 11 am; any amount to this 24-hour drive leads to student success
The Parkland College Foundation will hold a 24-hour "50th Anniversary Day of Giving" on Wednesday, March 6, at the portal www.parkland.edu/givingday, and will celebrate it with a special event in the Student Union.
During the 11 a.m. celebration, Champaign Mayor Deb Feinen and Urbana Mayor Diane Marlin will read proclamations of support from the Cities of Champaign-Urbana, and Parkland College Trustee Jim Ayers will read the proclamation from the City of Monticello. Foundation Director Tracy Wahlfeldt will read a special certificate from Senator Scott Bennett. WPCD-FM Radio will provide music. Special giveaways and sweet treats round out the festivities.
This inaugural daylong drive, which also marks the foundation's 50th "birthday," is designed to encourage alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends to help raise $50,000 toward academic scholarships, program and facility support, and related benefits disseminated through the foundation.
"We're gearing up for 24 hours of sharing from everyone who recognizes what a tremendous asset Parkland College has been and is to our students, our workforce and our community," said Parkland College President Tom Ramage. "Our faculty, staff and administrators give of themselves—every day—to improve the lives of thousands of people, nationally and internationally."
Starting at 12 a.m. and running to midnight, individuals, businesses and groups are asked to visit www.parkland.edu/givingday, search for a fund they care about (scholarships, Athletics, etc.), and donate any amount. The foundation will use the funds to assist deserving students in need, such as Parkland College student Laura Wilson.
"Thanks to the donors of Parkland College, I am providing a brighter future for my daughters," Wilson said. "If we all gave just a little, it would mean brighter futures for a lot of people."
Residents can view the progress of the Day of Giving's goal, and are invited to share personal testimonials on how Parkland College learning support has led to their success, at #ParklandGivingDay, according to Foundation Executive Director Tracy Wahlfeldt.
"Join us on this special day to help maintain Parkland College's status as a leader in program innovation, faculty-staff involvement and student support services among Illinois community colleges," Wahlfeldt said. "Every donation moves us all toward success!"