The UVA Strong Fund takes its name from the UVA Strong signs and banners that sprang up around Charlottesville as the reality of the tragedy set in the following day. The fund began receiving donations before week’s end, with contributions streaming in immediately upon its announcement on Thursday. Related initiatives include UVA Strong T-shirts, available through multiple vendors. A portion of the proceeds of the sales, for example, will be directed to the UVA Strong fund.
The UVA Alumni Association, a self-governed 501(c)(3) organization, has expertise in managing philanthropic accounts, including those that support more than 400 students receiving private scholarships.
Ultimately, the swift action reflects the rapid response of a University community unified in its determination to make a difference.
“We have been just overwhelmed by the outpouring of emails, calls, letters, flowers, notes. I mean, you name it, and we have received it, and we’re so grateful,” said Alumni Association President and CEO Lily West. “We are all struggling through what has been an impossible and devastating week, and to have the support of this community has just been incredible.”
