On Oct. 5, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) will celebrate its first-ever Day of Giving, a 24-hour push to support the state’s only academic health sciences university through donations to its foundation.
With a goal of $250,000, the campaign is the largest single-day philanthropic effort in the history of the institution.
“As we continue our mission to improve health and healthcare in Arkansas, we must continue to rely in part on the generosity of those around us,” said UAMS Interim Chancellor Stephanie Gardner, PharmD, EdD “UAMS is fortunate to have the support of so many, going all the way back to 1879, when eight physicians donated funds to start the medical school that has grown into an academic health center and research leader.”
More than 1 million patients each year are seen by UAMS faculty at its main campus, regional campuses, the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. UAMS graduates nearly 1,000 doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and medical professionals each year, the majority of whom stay in Arkansas to practice.
State appropriations are only about six percent of UAMS’ $1.5 billion annual budget. Patient care revenue makes up the lion’s share, or 75 percent, and includes significant support from the Medicaid expansion of Arkansas Works. As state appropriations remain flat from year to year, and needs continue to grow, UAMS seeks additional philanthropic support from around the state.
The UAMS Day of Giving will run exactly 24 hours, beginning at 6 a.m., Oct. 5, and ending at 6 a.m. Oct. 6. Gardner will kick off the day’s events by making the first donation.
All funds raised will support the various programs, funds, colleges, or institutes chosen by the donor. Gifts are tax deductible, and can be made online at dayofgiving.uams.edu, on the phone during normal business hours at (501) 686-8200, or in person at the offices of Institutional Advancement at UAMS. A gift of any amount to any program or fund of the donor’s choice will count toward the $250,000 goal.
Throughout the day, supporters of the initiative can share stories on social media about how UAMS has made a difference for them, using the hashtag #UAMSDayofGiving.
“Philanthropy is crucial to advancing our mission at UAMS,” said Lance Burchett, UAMS vice chancellor for Institutional Advancement. “This Day of Giving is a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation to the physicians, nurses, faculty, and staff who work to transform the lives of our students, patients, and their families. We are fortunate to have the generosity and commitment of individuals, corporations, and organizations that support us.”