Members of Niagara University's Office of Alumni Engagement coordinated the #GivingTuesday program on campus.

Niagara University students, alumni and friends once again came out in full force to support #GivingTuesday, which was held Nov. 29, 2016.

The national initiative inspires people to take collaborative action to improve their local communities, give back in better, smarter ways to the charities and causes they support, and help create a better world.

Approximately 1,000 pounds of food and nonperishable goods were collected for needy families by NU representatives at 14 on-campus locations. Additional support was provided by M&T Bank, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Praxair, Lumsden McCormick LLP and Revolution Indoor Cycling.

The proceeds from Niagara’s efforts were distributed to the Heart, Love and Soul food pantry, Destination Life Fellowship and Community Missions of Niagara Frontier, all located in Niagara Falls.

Coordination of the event was handled by the university’s Office of Alumni Engagement.

Niagara University was one of several local organizations to be included in a #GivingTuesday proclamation signed by Niagara Falls Mayor Paul A. Dyster. A portion of the proclamation read, “Giving Tuesday is a celebration of philanthropy and volunteerism, inspiring people to give whatever they’re able to give, as citizens working together to share commitments, rally for favorite causes, build a stronger community and think outside themselves.”

#GivingTuesday, now in its fifth year, is held annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) and the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday.

The local #GivingTuesday initiative was covered extensively by local media outlets and NU’s participation was highlighted by USA Today.