1Day4DU: Shaping the Future at the University of Denver

Thursday, May 18, marks the annual 1Day4DU—the University’s largest day of giving. 1Day4DU brings support to and builds awareness of meaningful priorities and projects spanning the entire University. Every year, DU’s alumni and friends across the country and around the world make a difference in the lives of students and faculty by giving during 1Day4DU.

Individuals can give to any area of the University. This year, 25 crowdfunding projects will be highlighted, all focused on academic priorities, student support, research and the public good. Every academic unit and all student support programs are represented with at least one cause. DU’s Board of Trustees has already reached 100% participation in this year’s 1Day4DU, with their commitments signaling a strong belief in the University’s mission and in 1Day4DU’s ability to advance key priorities.

“Our alumni and friends rally in support of our students every year on 1DAY4DU, and it is incredible to see the difference that their generosity makes,” says Val Otten, senior vice chancellor for Advancement. “The gifts made on this day have a true and lasting effect on some of DU’s most meaningful initiatives, and they are a deep expression of the spirit and enthusiasm for our community.”

Last year, more than 2,700 donors helped raise more than $1.1 million during the day of giving. More than 70% of the donations were of gifts under $100. This year’s goal is to surpass last year’s total and engage more than 3,000 donors. Many of this year’s projects have a match or giving challenge associated with them. What’s more, a giving incentive will be extended to certain alumni groups. For example, the first 200 undergraduate alumni who donate between $25­–$150 will receive a mini-DU branded foam finger. To simplify the giving process, donors will have the option of using either Venmo or PayPal, as well as  the traditional methods.

In combination with the digital experience, this will be the first year since 2019 that there will be a robust on-campus presence. 1Day4DU will serve as the kick-off event for Alumni Weekend. The Office of Advancement is partnering with the DU Programming Board (DUPB) to co-sponsor the May Days celebration on Thursday afternoon. From 2­­–5 p.m., the Campus Green will feature a carnival-like experience with a mechanical bull, dunk tank, human bowling, giant cornhole, local food trucks and other activities.

There are two new ways that individuals both on and off campus can donate to 1Day4DU. First, two “cash cabs” will roam the campus throughout the day. Anyone making a minimum donation of $5 can catch a ride to their destination on one of two golf carts. While on the cart, riders will be asked trivia questions related to the University. Second, three local restaurants will run a promo in support of 1Day4DU. Birdcall (1535 E. Evans Ave.), Chook Chicken (2500 E. Orchard Rd.) and Shake Shack (260 Josephine St.) will donate a percentage of each purchase if you mention a code at checkout.

To learn more about the projects featured on 1Day4DU and to support an initiative that is important to you, please click here.