Tempe, AZ, (March 20, 2023) – The Maricopa County Community Colleges District (MCCCD) is hosting Be a Student’s Hero (#IAmAHero) day of giving on March 24, 2023. Now in its third year with donations steadily rising each year, this special day was created to share student stories, highlight college programs, increase awareness, and raise money to support students. The fundraising effort is led by the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation (MCCF) in partnership with the ten community colleges.
Donations raised through this campaign go directly to supporting students is what makes this day stand out from other fundraising efforts. These funds support students where they need help most like basic living expenses, emergency funds, campus food pantries, as well as traditional school-related fees, such as tuition, textbooks and supplies.
After surpassing the $100,000 fundraising goal in 2022, MCCCD is doubling efforts in 2023 with a District-wide goal of $200,000.
The first Be a Student’s Hero Day was created in 2021 after MCCF saw a 957% increase in student requests for emergency assistance. “The unprecedented requests for support during the pandemic were eye-opening, and have continued with the rise of inflation,” said Brian F. Spicker, MCCF President and CEO. “It is our mission to make secondary education accessible to everyone. That means removing as many barriers to success as possible. Students shouldn’t have to choose between internet access and transportation.”
“This day of giving ensures the barriers are removed for any student across our District who would like to continue their education and have access to quality programs, exciting initiatives, and opportunities to grow,” said MCCCD Chancellor Dr. Steven R. Gonzales. “Providing financial resources to anything that stands in the way of our students completing their education not only empowers our students but forges a skilled workforce meeting the immediate demands of our state and corporate partners.”
MCCF has made fundraising easy by setting up a donation website specifically for Be a Student’s Hero Day: mcccdf.org/be-a-student-hero/. Donors can select to support the dedicated cause each college has identified as their greatest need or select a specific fund of their choosing.
Be A Student’s Hero Day of giving is made possible with the support of community and matching gift sponsors, including media sponsor azcentral.com/The Arizona Republic, Dr. Casey Durandet, Frazier Shows, Gensler, SRP and Walmart stores 5329, 2113 and 2515. Sponsorship opportunities are still available starting at $1,500. For more information, please contact Judy Sanchez, Chief Development Officer at Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation: [email protected] or 480.731.8739.
