U of R groups recognized with National Philanthropy Day awards
Posted: November 23, 2018 3:05 p.m.
(Left) Hill Business Students’ Society members Owen Kot, Megan Shoemaker, Aislinn Roske and 5 Days for the Homeless alum Shawn Wiskar, and (Right) U of R Alumni Association (URAA) President Bert Yakichuk PGDSGC'73, MEd'77, accept National Philanthropy Day awards on behalf of their organizations. Photo: Association of Fundraising Professionals - South Saskatchewan Facebook
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Two University of Regina groups were recognized for their service to the community.
On Wednesday, November 14, the Hill Business Students’ Society (BSS) and University of Regina Alumni Association (URAA) received National Philanthropy Awards at the Association of Funding Professionals (AFP) – South Saskatchewan Annual Luncheon. The AFP honours those who have gone above and beyond in fundraising and philanthropy in the community.
Hill Business Students’ Society (BSS) – Outstanding Youth Philanthropist
This award is presented to individuals and groups under the age of 24 that have demonstrated volunteerism and leadership in the community.
As representatives of over 1,600 business students, the BSS is an elected council that organizes fundraising events, and offers professional development opportunities for students.
This past March, the BSS organized a record-setting 5 Days for the Homeless. For the annual event, five students spend five nights outdoors to fundraise for Regina’s Carmichael Outreach and to raise awareness of homelessness. For the 2018 edition, the BSS was able to fundraise over $53,000 – the highest amount among 22 participating Canadian universities.
“It isn’t just putting on a fundraiser. It takes a lot of business smarts - and those who are involved leave not only as better business people – but also as better people,” said Owen Kot, BSS President.
In the past nine years, the BSS has fundraised over $275,000 for Carmichael Outreach. The success of the program at the U of R has long been noticed on a national scale, and recognition from the AFP will go a long way to building momentum for future events.
“This recognition is really a testament to the 5 Days legacy that has been built by the Society over the years,” said Kot. “It also serves as motivation for current and future council members to continue the tradition.”
University of Regina Alumni Association (URAA) – Outstanding Community Group
This award is given to community groups that demonstrate outstanding efforts in leading fundraising projects for the benefit of charitable organizations and not-for-profits.
As the representatives of more than 74,000 U of R alumni worldwide, the URAA promotes the accomplishments and support the development of the U of R. Through financial support for students, faculty awards, and volunteering at events on campus and beyond, the URAA enhances the University’s impact on a national scale - and beyond.
“We see ourselves as champions of our alma mater and are doing our small part to enhance the University footprint,” said Bert Yakichuk PGDSGC'73, MEd’77, President of the University of Regina Alumni Association.
In 2018, the URAA generously donated $100,000 to the College Avenue Campus Renewal Project – the Association’s largest pledge to date. With more than 100 years of serving students and nurturing lifelong connections between alumni and the University, the URAA was honoured to help preserve its legacy and help to serve the next generations of students.
“College Avenue Campus is a jewel of the University. We are pleased to help make the project a reality, and to be recognized for our contribution,” said Yakichuk.
Learn more about the Association of Funding Professionals of South Saskatchewan and other award winners here.
Learn more about the Hill Business Students’ Society here.
Learn more about the University of Regina Alumni Association here.