Groundswell of Giving
A strong foundation of donors who give what they can are key to UC Davis’ philanthropic success—and the base is growing. Since the campaign began in 2016, more than 76,000 first-time donors have contributed to the university. And among the more than $2.2 billion raised during the campaign, 421,218 gifts were under $1,000. In fact, some of the most powerful gifts are small in dollars, but huge in impact.
A first-time donor supports ocean health
A recent donation made by 11-year-old Matthew Gray exemplifies the impact of fostering the spirit of philanthropy from a young age. When Gray toured the UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory for the first time this past year, he became an instant fan.
“It’s a really good place to go because it lets you experience what’s underwater in the Bodega Bay,” he shared.
At the end of the tour, Gray told his parents, Linda Gray ’98 and John Gray, associate professor at the UC Davis Center for Neuroscience, that he wanted to donate $10 (his entire weekly allowance) to the lab because he so enjoyed the experience.
“They deserve some support; they do a really good job there,” he said.
The Grays combined forces and gave $20. “I told him I matched his donation because I was not only proud of him, but it also was a great opportunity to talk to him about the value of donating to important causes and recognizing the kindness of the lab manager who donated his time to give us the tour,” Linda Gray said.
This experience just might lead to a lifelong interest in philanthropy for Matthew Gray, who says he plans to make future donations to the places and things that are important to him.
“It made me feel good to help the Bodega Marine Lab keep running and doing research,” he shared.