The Power of Generosity: Giving Tuesday Now

• By Kate Gollahon
• April 1, 2020

May 5, 2020 is #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of giving to unite and heal communities following COVID-19. The Texas Tech University System (TTUS) is participating in the greater campaign with its Empower crowdfunding platform, featuring a campaign from each of its component institutions and asking supporters to give to the program of their choosing. The benefactor of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s (TTUHSC) campaign is the Our Legacy Now Student Foundation, a student-led organization that provides emergency financial assistance to TTUHSC students—the next wave of health care heroes who will serve on the frontlines to keep our communities healthy.

In the wake of a pandemic, health care workers and students have never been more valuable than they are today. The #GivingTuesdayNow campaign comes at a time when people around the world are searching for ways to stand together as an emergency response to the need caused by COVID-19. Support of local communities at a time like this displays the power of generosity—a message the world needs right now.

“During the COVID-19 crisis, Texas Tech University System and its component institutions have responded on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis to protect our Ram and Red Raider communities,” says Cameron J. Hall, senior director of annual giving at TTUS.

Hall points out that TTUS is at the forefront of assistance for the challenges currently facing West Texas communities. TTUHSC and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso provide health care professionals for most of West Texas. In these uncertain times, Angelo State University has provided relief housing for local COVID-19 testers and Texas Tech University converted a research lab into a clinical lab—allowing it to process the COVID-19 tests for 67 counties.

As the virus continues to spread, Hall sees that there is still a growing need for assistance from the West Texas community.

“COVID-19 continues to provide financial uncertainty for many of our students across the System. Many students have experienced job-loss or reduced work hours,” says Hall. “Others are on the front lines and in need of face shields and masks.”

For #GivingTuesdayNow, individuals have the opportunity to support students of the Texas Tech University System by making a gift to the program of their choice. Click here to access the crowdfunding site. Gifts for Angelo State can be givenhere.

Supporters are encouraged to share their generosity on social media using #GivingTuesdayNow, showing friends and family the importance of helping TTUHSC students today.

“Now, more than ever, our students need your support and the support of the entire Ram and Red Raider Community,” Hall says. “Please make your gift today.”