The doors of Milwaukee’s most prominent institutions tell an important story about the success of UW-Milwaukee. Behind these doors are our graduates: the backbone of the region’s workforce and the leaders of our most respected organizations.
Their success is yours. Educating and preparing students for the future is important work. It ensures progress and prosperity for our community. Thanks to you and to your dedicated work and support of UWM, our community is a better place to live and work.
People make UWM successful. We teach smarter and in greater numbers. We conduct meaningful and innovative research that is recognized among the best in the country. We move people through new thresholds every day. We give meaning and muscle to made in Milwaukee.
The spirit of giving also shapes the success of UWM. In addition to our day-to-day work, many colleagues voluntarily support an area of the University that is special to them. Although contributions are made throughout the year, many employees donate in April during the UWM Gives to UWM campaign.
Friends and colleagues contribute for their own unique reasons. Many colleagues support scholarships that enable deserving students to stay on track toward a degree. Others contribute to fellowships that attract talented graduate students to our campus. Employees also support departmental initiatives, the library, athletics, or funds that allow for additional resources and more flexibility in their area of work at UWM.
Whatever the cause, gifts from UWM faculty and staff make an impact. Thank you for your service and commitment to UWM. We appreciate the work you do for our great University. Please consider participating this year. For more information on the UWM Gives to UWM Campaign, please visit uwmgives.uwm.edu or contact Tom Bjornstad at bjornsta@uwm.edu or (414) 229-3298. Questions can also be directed to a development director in your school, college or division.
Made in Milwaukee Doors
Schools, hospitals, businesses and entertainment venues around Milwaukee are filled with UWM alumni. Where are these familiar doors? Test your knowledge of UWM’s connection to Milwaukee. Visit our website and follow the link to the Door Quiz. Top scores will be posted on our UWM Gives to UWM Facebook page every week.
Please like, and share a picture of your favorite door on our Facebook page and let us know why giving to UWM is important to you. Visit us on Facebook at UWM Gives to UWM and become a friend.
FAQs
When deciding where to direct your gift, consider all the opportunities at UWM. Below are questions and answers to frequently asked questions. If you would like additional information, please feel free to contact Tom Bjornstad at bjornsta@uwm.edu or by calling (414) 229-3298. Questions can also be directed to a development director in your school, college or division
Q: What is UWM Gives to UWM?
A: It is a voluntary workplace fundraising campaign. This is an opportunity for all current and retired UWM faculty and staff (and their spouses) to make an annual gift to a favorite UWM initiative, department or scholarship.
Q: I already work here, why should I give?
A: Even if you don’t make a financial contribution to UWM, we appreciate the important contributions you make as an employee.
Employees know the needs of the University are not always met because public funding from a variety of sources is in decline. Consequently, the private support UWM receives from alumni, friends, faculty and staff is more important than ever. Equally important, when UWM seeks support from outside funding organizations like foundations and corporations, they often inquire about and make funding decisions based on the level of internal financial support.
Q: When will I receive my solicitation?
A: E-mails will be sent throughout April. We encourage you to make your gift by the end of April, although gifts received before the end of the fiscal year on June 30 will be counted. Gifts are accepted at any time of the year.
Q: Can I designate my contribution?
A: Yes. The note you receive may suggest a designation, but you have the option to designate your gift to a specific college, department or program. If you have a question about a specific fund please call 229-3298 or e-mail bjornsta@uwm.edu.
Q: How much should I give?
A: All gifts are counted regardless of their size and every gift is important. The specific amount you give depends on your financial situation. Many people who donate feel strongly about what they support and give accordingly.
Q: Can I make an anonymous gift?
A: Yes. Just tell us on the pledge card that you wish to remain anonymous. You will receive a tax receipt but your name will not appear on any list of gifts received by your department or any donor lists.
Q: Can I make a gift with my spouse?
A: Yes. The pledge card provides the opportunity to make a joint gift with your spouse. Spouses are included as joint contributors.
Here’s an added benefit. Your spouse may work for a matching gift company, and contributions to UWM are eligible to be matched by corporations. A matching gift may double or even triple the amount of money you contribute and you receive the credit.
Q: What are my payment options?
A: There are several options. When you receive your email appeal you can:
1) Open the link to the payroll deduction form. Complete and return the form to have a portion of your gift automatically deducted from your paycheck. Forms and instructions can be found at the campaign website .
2) Send a personal check made payable to the UWM Foundation to the UWM Office of Development, Hefter Center, 3271 N Lake Dr., Milwaukee WI 53211.
3) Charge your gift on a Visa or MasterCard. This option is available on the pledge card or here.
4) To make a gift of appreciated securities, such as stock, call Patrick Kessenich at (414) 229-3018.
