One Day for UNK enters third year, seeks 1,905 donations

KEARNEY, Neb. — The University of Nebraska at Kearney is taking one day to celebrate itself and raise money for the future.

One Day for UNK runs from noon on Thursday until noon on Friday. It’s the third year for the 24-hour fundraising drive. It includes a few on-campus events, but is primarily focused on gathering online donations.

Vice President of Alumni Relations and Development Lucas Dart says One Day for UNK has exceeded expectations in its first couple years.

“It’s a chance for people to just celebrate together what the university represents and participate in something that’s bigger than themselves," Dart said. "I think people like to see a number on the board. They like to see themselves in that number and when we achieve the goal they can feel really good about that.”

People can donate online to a specific program or scholarship. The university secured $91,000 in matches and challenge money before the event started.

Dart says the university’s ongoing budget cuts emphasize the importance of getting support that goes beyond state aid.

UNK hopes to gather 1,905 gifts, inspired by the school’s founding in 1905.