Celebrate the University of Delaware’s largest annual day of giving and gratitude, I Heart UD Giving Day, on Wednesday, May 4. This year marks five years of this collective giving event, which has generated more than $2.5 million to support 300 UD causes and programs overall.

“It is incredible to be celebrating five years of making a meaningful difference for Blue Hens, positively impacting their experiences, research opportunities, athletic endeavors, service trips and many other areas that shape generations of UD students,” said Jim Dicker, vice president of Development and Alumni Relations.

I Heart UD Giving Day brings together all Blue Hens and friends to collectively make a difference for fundraising projects led by students, faculty, staff and alumni. This year, there are more than 135 UD causes and programs in need of support. Several are based on meeting the immediate needs of Blue Hens, including the Student Crisis Fund and Blue Hen Strong Fund. The full list of projects can be found at udel.edu/iheartUD.

There are also ways to amplify or even double your gifts, thanks to generous donors who have contributed toward challenges and matching gift opportunities. For example, throughout the day on May 4, projects that have the most donors within an hour timeframe will unlock additional funds. All challenges and matching gift opportunities can be found on subpages on the I Heart UD Giving Day website.

“There is so much potential for this year’s giving day,” Dicker said. “We are looking forward to witnessing the Blue Hen community come together to lift each other up through philanthropy. The support from the UD community today is instrumental in opening doors for our students.”

On campus, students, faculty and staff are invited to celebrate their love for UD on The Green from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with treats, activities and prizes.

Make a gift to support the UD programs, causes or people closest to your heart and share the opportunity to be part of the generosity with your friends and families. Help spread the word about I Heart UD Giving Day by using #IHeartUD on social media.