Questions and Answers
Below you will find answers to many common questions about Oski's B-Day Bear-a-thon 2025.
How do I make a gift?
Just scroll down and select a program category. From there, select the program that is the most meaningful to you and you'll be taken to a special giving page where you'll able to make your gift and add your name to Oski's birthday card!
Is this part of Big Give?
No, this is separate campaign for Oski's birthday, to specifically support student excellence, belonging, and well-being. Don't worry, we will still hold Big Give -- join us on Thursday, March 12, 2026!
When is the Bear-a-Thon?
Oski's B-day Bear-a-Thon 2025 is taking place September 17-19 at 1 p.m. PDT.
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, your gift is fully tax-deductible. Our tax ID number is 94-6090626.
What is the Oski B-day Bear-a-thon?
The Bear-a-thon is a 3-day marathon to celebrate Oski's 84th birthday by supporting his favorite causes! Oski cares about creating a sense of home and community for all Berkeley students, and you can help make his birthday wishes come true.
During the Bear-a-Thon, you have the opportunity to support a unique group of programs that help students thrive at Berkeley. Choose your favorite and join us in making a difference!
How do I vote for where Oski will make his $1,000 gift in honor of his birthday?
When you make your very own donation, you'll have the option to select a program. The program with the most votes during the campaign wins an additional $1,000. The winning program will be announced September 27.
What are the voting options to award $1,000 in honor of Oski's birthday?
Basic Needs: Basic Needs Center ensures that students have access to food, essential items, and housing.
Belonging: Thriving Initiatives Fund creates conditions so that all of our communities can thrive through scholarships, student support services, research opportunities, and more.
Mentorship: Berkeley Connect is a unique and impactful mentorship program for undergraduates that helps them gain confidence, make connections, and build a clear post-college path.
Scholarships: Fiat Lux Scholarship provides financial support for low-income, high-achieving students from California.
Student Excellence: Student Excellence Fund helps student's dreams come true, and include funding for student orgs, leadership development, urgent needs, and various programming to help students find their way.
Wellness: Health Equity Fund helps provide equity in healthcare by covering students’ out-of-pocket health care expenses.
Unrestricted: Cal Fund provides essential support for every Berkeley student.
Are there contests?
Yes! You can check out all of the contests, leaderboards, challenges and matches! Some are specific for programs, some are giving-based, and some are social media based! Watch your favorite programs score additional money!
Help your favorite program win these contests by signing up as an Ambassador and spreading the word to your friends and family!
Can I make a recurring donation?
Yes, thank you, we love recurring gifts! When you make your gift, you'll be able to choose one-time or recurring.
I made a gift elsewhere, can that count?
Sorry, no! We are only able to count your gift if it comes through this specific website to one of our featured funds...but Oski still sends you an appreciative hug!
Still have questions?
Contact us at calgift@berkeley.edu
