Birds Give Back results in record breaking totals

Posted on February 25, 2022
Donations and proceeds will further modernize the Karin L. Bone Athletics Study Center and will ultimately lead to the expansion of services and resources available in that space. (Photo courtesy of GoRedbirds.com)

By Jake Fogal

BLOOMINGTON-On Thursday, February 24, the Illinois State Athletics Department along with the entire Illinois State University community took part in the fourth annual Birds Give Back: Mission Possible. Following a full day of support, 230 donors in 22 states paved the way to a new ‘Birds Give Back’ fundraising record.

Illinois State Athletics set a goal of $75,000 to help raise funds for investments into the Student-Athlete Excellence Fund. Thanks to the generous support of fans, alumni, family, and former student-athletes, Redbird Athletics raised $82,978.

“Grateful. That’s really the only way to describe what we’re feeling today. So many people stepped up to the plate and delivered for Redbird student-athletes,” Illinois State Director for Development Derek Stark said.

“This investment into our Student-Athlete Excellence Fund is going to drastically improve the Karin L. Bone Athletics Study Center. These renovations will enhance the experience for our current student-athletes and will also help to attract future Redbirds to our campus. I want to extend a big thank you to our staff and especially all our donors who helped this vision come to fruition.”

Donations and proceeds will further modernize the Karin L. Bone Athletics Study Center and will ultimately lead to the expansion of services and resources available in that space. Including creating a mental health speaker series, purchases of high-tech wireless printers, branded wall wraps, new carpet, computers, scientific calculators, multifunctional furniture (chairs, desks, tables) a TV (to promote student-athlete success as a recruitment tool and as an information spot for current athletes) as well as other school-related items that will improve the overall academic experience for Redbird student-athletes.

In total, Birds Give Back: Mission Possible resulted in well over $950,000 raised from 2,919 donors across campus.

If you missed out on Birds Give Back, there’s still time to make your gift and check out all the day’s activities at BirdsGiveBack.IllinoisState.edu. 

Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].

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