Las Vegas City Wire

Giving Tuesday: Global Generosity

There’s a certain kind of feeling that comes with the changing of the seasons, and it’s not just the frostiness soaring in the breeze. It’s something that keeps you even warmer than your favorite autumn jacket. It’s the selfless act of giving. As the holiday season approaches and envelops our thoughts and minds, there’s no better question to ask yourself than “What can I do to benefit someone else?” Giving Tuesday and TMCC soundly believe that every act of generosity counts; whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or a stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help. With Nov. 29 right around the corner, there’s no better time to express your generosity than by aiding the students who breathe life into our campus.

A Charitable Cause

Giving Tuesday will soon be underway, and TMCC is proud to be a part of this global initiative inspiring citizens of every nation to immerse themselves in radical generosity. Fun fact: the word “radical” derives from “root,” and movements imagine change at the most fundamental levels. It’s no secret that being a college student is difficult and expensive. But what happens to students who face a life-threatening catastrophe on top of their already challenging education and work?

TMCC’s goal to raise $20,000 for the Student Emergency Fund is ambitious, but attainable with your help! Every dollar raised on Giving Tuesday will be designated to this established fund dedicated to urgent needs, providing relief for students who are struggling to afford their education due to higher living costs. Inflation has cut deep, and many students are facing difficult life decisions as they witness prices for gas, groceries and other basic necessities skyrocket; sadly, the fear of having to put their education on hold becomes a very real possibility.

The significance of the contributions are inspiring, however, with student accounts of the funds acting as a sort of saving grace. Gretchen Sawyer, Executive Director of Foundation and Grants, shared several examples in which the funds have been used to remedy students’ financial burdens:

• Due to a cancer diagnosis, a student requested help paying for tuition because of mounting medical bills.
• Another student, who cares for her elderly parents, needed funds for car repairs so she could attend her classes.
• The Student Emergency Fund assisted a student with a $1600 ambulance bill after an unexpected accident occurred.
• A student had lost her condo rental after the property was sold. She needed a safe place to stay with her daughter while she searched for somewhere else to live, so she requested funds for temporary housing.

"We are grateful for the support from the community that provides much needed emergency funds for our students. These funds are critical for students who are in great need to be able to stay enrolled in their courses," Sawyer said.

With living expenses such as food, rent, utilities, transportation and medical bills all remaining under the Student Emergency Fund’s umbrella, it’s understandable why students seek shelter from the gales that life can muster. You can’t have a rainbow without a little rain! Truly, no amount is too small, and every gift matters. You’ll be improving students’ lives, which will feel deeply rewarding for you, too. Encourage your friends and family to do the same, so that our students will have one less thing to worry about. Giving isn’t just about making a donation, it’s about making a difference!

Learn more about TMCC’s official #GivingTuesday Campaign to make a contribution today.

Original source can be found here