VIU Foundation launches challenge to support students in need

Challenge aims to inspire a network of community support for students – and participants can win a day at the spa.

Paying for university can be challenging. With record inflation driving up the cost of food, housing and transportation, the Vancouver Island University (VIU) Foundation recognizes that students are finding it harder than ever to make ends meet.

That’s why the Foundation created the VIU Access Fund, a unique resource that provides financial assistance of up to $2,000 to students in need. It is accessible year-round and includes a shorter, less formal application so help can be delivered in a timely manner – before students must pause their studies. 

“We know that many traditional scholarships and awards have limitations. They are only given out at a certain time of the year and many of them have other criteria that may limit who can access them, such as program or financial standing,” said Rowen Warrilow, Annual Giving Coordinator. “For example, there are currently no scholarships, awards or bursaries available for students in apprenticeship programs. This fund is accessible to any student who needs it, when they need it, regardless of program.”

How the challenge works:

1. Donate to the VIU Access Fund between now and June 5.
2. Include the name of the person who inspired you to donate.
3. Once three people name you as their inspiration before June 5, your name will be added to a raffle to win $100 to the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort.
4. The raffle winner will be announced on June 6.

“We are hoping the challenge will inspire a network of support for this innovative new fund,” said Warrilow. “Every donation goes towards supporting the next generation of political leaders, entrepreneurs and community builders. Sometimes a little help makes all the difference for students. Knowing the wider community is cheering them on can help students regain a sense of purpose and a renewed drive to succeed in their goals.”

Visit VIU donors to find out more about how VIU Access Fund is different.

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Media Contact:

Jenn McGarrigle, External Communications Manager, Vancouver Island University

C: 250.619.6860 | E: Jenn.McGarrigle@viu.ca | T: @VIUNews

The VIU community acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nation on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.