Below you will find answers to many common questions about Oski's B-Day Bear-a-thon.
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 a completely new campaign for Oski's birthday, to specifically support student excellence, belonging, and well-being. Don't worry, we will still hold Big Give in March of 2025!
When is the Bear-a-Thon?
Oski's B-day Bear-a-Thon 2024 is taking place September 16-20, noon to noon!
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 special way to celebrate Oski's 83rd 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 $1,500 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 between September 16 and 20, noon to noon, will receive $1,500. The winning program will be announced September 27.
Are there contests?
Yes, there are two contests!
MOST DONORS: The top three programs with the highest number of individual donors will win cash prizes ranging from $400 to $4,000!
MOST YOU+2 AMBASSADORS: The top three programs with the highest number of ambassadors who meet the criteria for the You+2 Challenge will win additional cash prizes from $250 to $1,500!
Help your favorite program win these contests by signing up as an Ambassador and spreading the word to your friends and family!
What are the voting options to award $1,500 in honor of Oski's birthday?
Cal Fund: provides essential support for every Berkeley student
Basic Needs: ensures that students have access to food, essential items, and housing
Berkeley Connect: a unique and impactful mentorship program for undergraduates that helps them gain confidence, make connections, and build a clear post-college path
Fiat Lux Scholarship: financial support for low-income, high-achieving students from California
Health Equity Fund: helps provide equity in healthcare by covering students’ out-of-pocket health care expenses
Thriving Initiatives: creates conditions so that all of our communities can thrive through scholarships, student support services, research opportunities and more
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