HLGU’s second annual Day of Giving was a huge success for the University.
HLGU staff set a goal for the 2022 Day of Giving to raise 250 total gifts over the 24-hour period between noon on Thursday, April 21, and noon on Friday, April 22. This goal was easily met with a total of 392 donors giving to the institution in 24 hours. Individual gifts to the Day of Giving added up to $173,845, and the HLGU Board of Visitors has also contributed a challenge gift of $54,510 to date, bringing the total dollars raised to $227,815 over the 24-hour timeframe.
“The Day of Giving response is an example of God’s gracious provision,” said HLGU transitional president Rodney A. Harrison. “From the beginning of the fiscal crisis, we have been saying, ‘God is at work at HLGU.’ This is another example of His work and the cooperative spirit we enjoy with local churches, alumni, and friends.”
Social media was an integral part to this year’s Day of Giving as many supporters of HLGU took to their social media accounts expressing support for the institution and encouraging friends and family to give. The HLGU Board of Visitors also got involved in a huge way.
“As longtime friends and supporters of HLGU, the Board of Visitors was especially pleased this year to take the lead in this annual special event,” said Distinguished Professor of Old Testament Emeritus Dr. Robert Bergen. “All of us on the board love HLGU and believe that with God’s help, the University will move through these difficult days to a new period of restoration and growth. We’re glad to be a part of what God is doing here!”
Part of the Day of Giving activities included the first Disc Golf Glow Tournament on the HLGU Disc Golf Course, spearheaded by Assistant Baseball Coach Charles Rapp. All competitor entry fees went directly toward the University as Day of Giving gifts. The HLGU Disc Golf Course is a direct result of HLGU’s first annual Day of Giving, when the course was fully funded.
“Our Glow Tournament had 20 teams of students, alumni, employees, and community members,” Rapp said. “Conditions were great and the glow round was a huge success. We are extremely thankful for the support and for how the tournament played out.”
The funds raised from the 2022 HLGU Day of Giving will play a large part in helping the University during its current financial challenge of paying off and avoiding any additional debt.
“I am thankful for the way that God worked in people’s lives in supporting our Day of Giving,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Dr. Ray Carty. “The number of individual donors significantly surpassed our goal. The amount of financial support that was expressed was amazing and encouraging. This Day of Giving laid a foundation for the Strength for the Future campaign that will provide for and sustain the student experience and God’s mission at HLGU. We are thankful.”
The 2023 Day of Giving is currently set for April 20-21st, 2023.