Each fall, the University of Florida joins forces with the greater Gainesville community for a cause that reaches far beyond campus borders. The UF Campaign for Charities (UFCC) is now underway for 2025, inviting everyone — businesses, alumni and friends of the university — to help strengthen the social fabric of North Central Florida.
“The Gator Nation always lifts those in need up, and this is the perfect way to help our friends and neighbors,” said Chuck Clemons, vice president for UF’s Government and Community Relations. “This year our goal is to break the $1 million mark and really make a lasting impact for our community.
The annual effort, which began in 1989, has become one of the region’s most reliable sources of support for local nonprofits, ensuring that these organizations addressing food security, housing, health care, education, environmental stewardship and animal care can continue their essential work. Last year, the campaign raised nearly $890,000 for more than 100 local agencies. Those dollars went directly to programs to feed families, shelter the homeless, provide legal aid, protect our springs and forests, and enrich the lives of children and seniors.
How the public can join in
The 2025 UFCC ends Oct. 17 and welcomes contributions from residents, alumni, local businesses and friends of UF. Giving is simple and every dollar stays in North Central Florida.
· Secure online giving: Visit ufcc.ufl.edu to make a one-time gift or set up recurring donations. You can direct your gift to a favorite nonprofit or choose an undesignated contribution that supports all participating agencies.
· Check or credit card by mail: Prefer to give offline? The UFCC site provides easy instructions for sending a check or making a credit-card pledge. Every gift helps the community we share grow and thrive. The agencies supported through UFCC touch nearly every part of daily life — whether it’s the schools our children attend, the parks we enjoy, the arts that inspire us or the essential services that keep neighbors safe and supported.
A shared impact
The heart of the campaign lies in its local reach. Every pledge, large or small, stays in the region to serve North Central Florida families. Agencies are carefully screened and meet strict accountability standards, so donors can be confident their contributions have a real effect.
“The UF Campaign for Charities reflects the generosity of our campus community and our shared commitment to making a difference,” said Karen Thomas, UF Community Relations director. “Each year, Gators unite to support nonprofits that strengthen our region and make it a better place to live, work and play. For nearly three decades, this tradition of giving has invested more than $29 million back into our community — a legacy we are deeply proud of, even if we don’t often shine a spotlight on it.”
More than a university effort
UF’s involvement underscores its role as a land-grant institution dedicated to public service, but UFCC is intentionally inclusive. Local residents, alumni, small businesses and anyone who wants to give back to their community are all encouraged to participate.
For details on participating agencies and how to secure your giving options, visit ufcc.ufl.edu.
Together, the Gator Nation and the North Central Florida community can make 2025 the most impactful year yet for UFCC.
Jamey Harvey serves as the Communications and External Affairs Specialist in the Office of Government and Community Relations at the University of Florida.