CAMBRIAN COLLEGE
Cambrian College gets ready for Giving Tuesday in support of students

Cambrian College is gearing up for its first annual #ItStartsAtCambrian campaign, a week-long initiative that culminates on Giving Tuesday and invites alumni, staff, and community members to support programs that make a direct difference in the lives of students.

"This year, we have the opportunity to rally around our students and support initiatives that help in their education and post-secondary experience," explains Melanie Cacciotti, Cambrian's Executive Director of Development.

As part of this year's #ItStartsAtCambrian campaign, Cambrian has identified five major funds for giving: Student Hardship and Emergency Support, Equipment Renewal, Breakfast Club, Varsity Athletics, and Areas of Greatest Need. Donors also have the option to select a specific area of their choice beyond these five priorities.

A unique feature of this year's initiative is the introduction of Cause Coins, which allow students to have a direct say in how donations are used. Donations made to the Cause Coins fund are transformed into real dollars that students will use to determine where the money goes.

"On December 2, students will allocate Cause Coins to the initiatives they value most," says Cacciotti. "Each coin represents an actual dollar donated, empowering students to influence how resources are distributed. This approach is designed to strengthen their sense of community, impact, and shared purpose by giving them a meaningful role in directing contributions."

There is an added incentive to donate this year. Every donor who gives from now to December 2 will be entered into a draw to win a live-edge table valued at $10,000, handcrafted and donated by retired Cambrian professor Robbie Duncan.

Donors and community members are also invited to take part in Cambrian's #ItStartsAtCambrian Giving Tuesday celebration, held in the Fireside Lounge of the Student Life Centre at the Barry Downe campus on December 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will feature free treats, prize draws, swag, live music, and an on-site broadcast from HOT 93.5 (featuring Cambrian alumnus Sherri K.) and Rewind 103.9.

For full details on Cambrian College's 2025 campaign including how to donate and the targeted giving areas visit https://cambriancollege.ca/givingtuesday.