Strength in Numbers Website

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – This Giving Tuesday, the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics I FUND is launching the Strength in Numbers campaign in an effort to grow its base of donors. The goal to grow to 10,000 donors by July 2022 will be encouraged through friendly regional competition. Illinois is challenging the nearly 500,000 living alumni and fans to Join the Fight and become members of the I FUND. 

"I think sometimes people see the large gifts we announce for our facilities projects and feel their $50, $100, or $500 doesn't matter, which couldn't be further from the truth," Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said. "When you look at the scale that exists within our alumni and fans, it's easy to get excited about our potential. If everyone came together to make a simple gift of $10 per month, $100 a year, it would be an instant game changer for our coaches, student-athletes, and the entire University."

The I FUND has set a goal of adding 4,000 new donors and reaching $12 million in total donations and has a plan to grow regionally to reach the numbers needed for sustained excellence year after year. 

"For at least a decade, we've held steady at around 6,000 donors and just over $7 million in donations annually," said Senior Associate Athletics Director of Development Howard Milton. "We need a big push from our loyal fans and alumni if we want to work from the same place as the greats in college sports and in the Big Ten Conference." 

All new members will receive a Join the Fight Fan Package, all the benefits of being an I FUND member, and recognition within an Illinois Athletics facility. As added competitive incentive, each donor in regions that meet or exceed the membership goal will receive a personalized 8x10 jersey print.  

ABOUT THE I FUND

The mission of the I FUND is simple – to pay the scholarships and fund the academic support services for more than 500 student-athletes. Illinois Athletics is responsible for paying the University full tuition – in-state, out-of-state, or international – for the 258.5 athletic scholarships allowed under NCAA rules, along with the full cost of books, fees, room and board, and a cost-of-attendance stipend.