PCC Foundation hosts ‘Big Give’ event to energize student support
Story by Sharon Martell. Photos by Misty Bouse.
From Oct. 8-9, the PCC Foundation will host its sixth annual “Big Give Day,” a community giving event designed to encourage support for Portland Community College’s programs and scholarships. This year, the goal is to raise $100,000 in 36 hours.
“Big Give Day” kicks off at noon, Tuesday, Oct. 8 and runs until 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 9. Using the power of networking and crowdfunding, the event invites alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of PCC to contribute to vital initiatives. Donors will have the option to support one of 24 college scholarships and programs.
Mson Gongora.
To view the complete list of funds, visit the Big Give Day webpage.
According to a recent survey by the Hope Center for College, Community and Justice, a staggering 64% of PCC’s students reported experiencing basic needs insecurity. This crisis extends beyond Portland, with over 52% of students in Oregon’s community colleges facing housing insecurity during the pandemic. “Big Give Day” provides critical resources that can change lives and support the goals of PCC students.
Dance enthusiast Mson Gongora, a recent graduate, was the first in his family to attend college and earned two associate degrees. He credits a scholarship through PCC’s Future Connect Program, a program for students who identify as first-generation or low-income, for his success. Future Connect made up the biggest contribution towards his education expenses but he also received funding from other sources like the Oregon Opportunity Grant, the Pell Grant and a PCC Foundation scholarship. He incurred no debt, having paid for college solely through grants and scholarships.
“PCC helped a kid who grew up with nothing to want more,” Gongora said. “They gave me the ability to dream.”
Gina Eygenhuysen transitioned from an unfulfilling marketing job to pursue a nursing degree at PCC. It wasn’t easy — unable to work while immersed in the demanding program, she struggled to make ends meet. Free food pantries became her lifeline, and PCC Foundation scholarships provided the crucial financial support she needed to stay focused on her studies.
Gina Eygenhuysen with classmate.
“Thank you to the donors who supported me,” she said. “I hope PCC continues receiving donations so more students can pursue their education. There are so many people who want to learn, but financial barriers hold them back.”
The Foundation distributes $2.3 million in scholarships annually to more than 1,500 students, ensuring they have access to training and education at PCC and the support needed to succeed, regardless of their ability to pay.
“We are so thankful to everyone who comes together each year to support PCC programs and scholarships,” said PCC Foundation Executive Director Christina Kline. “It’s incredible what we can achieve when we join forces. The funds raised on ‘Big Give Day’ have a profound impact on our students’ lives.”
Learn more and help spread the word at pcc.edu/biggiveday.