The University of Arkansas Cossatot Foundation received more than $13,000 in donations from Southwest Arkansas community members on Nov. 27, also known as #GivingTuesday.
This day, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is a day focused on giving back. Originating from social media, #GivingTuesday has become a time that many nonprofits ask supporters to give time, money or help share the organization's message.
Local businesses participated in the UA Cossatot Foundation's #GivingTuesday celebration by collecting donations on site and wearing "I Gave" T-shirts. The UA Cossatot Foundation also received two Legacy 2020 Campaign donations from local businesses in support of the cause.
In addition to collecting donations for scholarships, the foundation held a giving event at the UA Cossatot Bank of Lockesburg Gymnasium. Participants were invited to give blood and enjoy a complimentary lunch. A drawing for the latest Apple Watch was also held.
"We are truly grateful to everyone who came out to our giving event, donated and helped share our foundation's message on this day of giving," Dustin Roberts, UA Cossatot coordinator of development, stated in a press release. "We are absolutely thrilled with the amount raised and all of the love and support showed to our college."
For more information about #GivingTuesday and the foundation, go to www.cccua.edu/give.