Birds Give Back, Illinois State’s day of giving, is scheduled for February 25. This is the third year for the event that encourages individuals to support their passion on campus. The goal is to raise 2,021 gifts to correspond with the start of 2021.
“Birds Give Back is a great opportunity to show students we have their back, especially in these trying times,” Senior Director of Annual Giving Jillian Nelson said. “The past two Birds Give Back events were even more successful than we could have imagined. Last year, more than 2,000 gifts were given during the 24-hour event and we anticipate a similar outpouring of support this year.”
A variety of activities are scheduled for the 24-hour giving period, including a virtual event titled “What’s it like to be a Redbird these days?” A panel of Redbirds have volunteered to speak and answer questions about their personal experiences as hardworking students during a global pandemic. Panelists who are engaged in student activities will discuss how their organizations adapted to create safe environments for students to continue their involvement. This event will be held virtually from 7-8 p.m. on February 25. Registration can be completed online at BirdsGiveBack.IllinoisState.edu.
Another unique opportunity this year is the “Hearts of Hope” project. This initiative involves gathering messages of encouragement for current Redbirds. The goal is to spread 1,000 messages of hope during a time when students need it most. The Office of Annual Giving has teamed with University Housing Services to distribute these hearts of hope to students living on campus. Visit BirdsGiveBack.IlinoisState.edu to leave a message of hope or make a gift.
