By Catherine Brown
Office of Development and Alumni Relations

On Tuesday, April 21, the Virginia Commonwealth University community from around the world will come together to celebrate our fifth annual Giving Day by supporting students, patients, faculty and the communities we serve.

Donors can support what matters most to them, from student resources and scholarships to comprehensive patient care, lifesaving research, faculty development and more. Special day-of matches and challenges help them maximize their impact.

"We invite all alumni, faculty, staff, students, families and friends to join us in supporting VCU's mission to expand access to higher education and build a healthier future for all," VCU President Michael Rao said. "Donor support is vital to our mission to drive VCU and VCU Health forward to lift people's lives."

Giving Day takes place during VCU's Philanthropy Week, when students learn about philanthropy and express gratitude for VCU donors who support the programs and initiatives that enrich their college experience. During events on the Monroe Park Campus, students thank donors while enjoying free food and games.

A special communitywide celebration, Giving Games, will take place April 21 from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Park Plaza. Attendees can participate in fun activities - like throwing inflatable axes and petting therapy dogs - and learn about and help earn money for causes that make a difference for students and patients: Ram Pantry, which provides food and other necessities to students in need; the Student Emergency Fund, which supports students with unexpected expenses; VCU Innovation Annual Fund, which supports the greatest needs across the university; Dogs on Call, a therapy dog program that supports patients, visitors, staff and students; or Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.