Illinois State’s highly successful Redbird Philanthropy Week will be repeated this year February 22-26. The annual event is a tradition aimed at nurturing a collective sense of gratitude for the donors who enhance the Redbird experience. A variety of new events have been scheduled that will allow individuals to get involved virtually and show their support for the University.
“Many students graduate without knowing that a network of generous Redbirds supported them throughout their journey,” said Director of Annual Giving Van Miller. “Redbird Philanthropy Week is designed to show students how donors enhance their experience, pull back the curtain on who these donors are, share some of the reasons they choose to support the University, and suggest reasons students may want to consider becoming loyal donors themselves.”
This year’s event includes a Redbird Philanthropy Quest that follows a theme introduced in 2020. It was then that Keith ’08 and Becky ’12 Habersberger filmed their Redbird Philanthropy Quest video series. Keith is a member of the Try Guys, and Becky is a former acting major. The two toured campus and showcased the many ways donors enhance the Redbird experience.
Students will have the opportunity to embark on their own virtual Redbird Philanthropy Quest that includes a series of short videos hosted by current student Terrence Mayfield and covering philanthropy in general. “Students who complete the quest will receive an exclusive shirt,” Miller said. “We’re excited to offer this opportunity to students.”
There are many ways for faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to participate as well in Redbird Philanthropy Week. Keep an eye out for social media posts throughout the week on university social media channels. Spice up your Zoom background with a Redbird Philanthropy Week or Birds Give Back Zoom background.
Birds Give Back, Illinois State’s day of giving, is part of Redbird Philanthropy Week and is set for February 25. The day emphasizes the importance of collective giving with challenge gifts set to unlock once participation goals are achieved. Visit BirdsGiveBack.IllinoisState.edu to follow along throughout the day.
Want to help ensure the day is successful? Consider signing up to be a Birds Give Back Ambassador at BirdsGiveBack.IllinoisState.edu. Ambassadors encourage others to contribute to their passion throughout the day and can win prizes based on their level of activity. As a group, ambassadors have helped Birds Give Back grow to reach more donors each of the last two years.
Redbird Philanthropy Week’s goals are educational, yet many students are inspired to participate as donors. Students who contribute $10 or more to the Illinois State Excellence Fund this year will receive a unique pair of Redbird socks. This opportunity is just for current students. All gifts must be made through Hatch.IllinoisState.edu/StudentSocks.
To learn more about Redbird Philanthropy and get involved, visit Giving.IllinoisState.edu.
