‘One Day for UK’ Back for 2nd Annual Digital Day of Giving

One day to build a brighter future together.

Mark your calendars! On Sept. 16, the University of Kentucky will celebrate the second annual university-wide giving day, "One Day for UK." For 24 hours, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, students and fans will rally to support the college, unit or cause of their choice.

During the first "One Day for UK," supporters gave more than $1 million to more than 50 areas across the university. After postponing from April to September, the goal of the second year is to support the many ways the university is building a more vibrant future.

"'One Day for UK' is a digital giving day highlighting the numerous ways donors can support the university," Katie Sanders Vogel, associate director of annual giving, said. "As we begin a new semester — one that looks unlike any our campus community has been through before — we are reminded of the importance of celebrating where we’ve been, but together, we set our eyes on where the future will lead us."

"One Day for UK" supports the university’s comprehensive campaign, Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign, which increases opportunities for student success, funds innovative research, improves health care, strengthens the alumni network and enhances athletic programs. Now, more than halfway to its $2.1 billion goal, Kentucky Can benefits from every gift.  

"Kentucky Can is our challenge to give back, to demonstrate resilience and share a glimmer of hope, to show how the UK experience can be one of service. 'One Day for UK' is one component of that effort," D. Michael Richey, vice president for philanthropy and alumni engagement, said. "This is an opportunity for us to rally around UK and to encourage giving to the many wonderful programs that distinguish us and are helping us to persevere in our efforts to transform the Commonwealth and inspire the world."

To further promote the day, each college, unit and cause is seeking the support of BBNfluencers — alumni, friends, donors and students — to help publicize "One Day for UK" through their personal social media accounts.

You can sign up to become a BBNInfluencer here.

"The timing of this 'One Day for UK' is striking. Many of our colleges, departments and programs face unique challenges as they seek to provide a safe and enriching experience for the UK community," Vogel added. "This is an opportunity to highlight the wide-ranging impact of the university. From scholarship to research, from innovation to health care — we hope Sept. 16 serves as a reminder of all that Kentucky can do when we press on together."

Most colleges, units and causes have selected a specific fund or funds to highlight on "One Day for UK." A complete list can be found online.

On Sept. 16, visit the "One Day for UK" website to make a gift, track the progress and learn how the campaign benefits UK. Leading up to the 24-hour campaign, donors can make a gift by sending a check in the mail or by visiting Network for Good. Simply check a box to have your gift applied to the giving day total.

To join the online conversation, follow #OneDayforUK on all social media platforms.