> FAQ

Q:	Who is calling me ... is this a telemarketing company?
A:	No – our calling staff is made up entirely of current students. We give students valuable work experience, the opportunity to build communication skills, and a chance to get to know Duck alumni while giving you a chance to share stories and experiences, ask questions, voice concerns, give feedback and pledge your support to your priority area at the University of Oregon.

Q:	Why are you calling me?
A:	The Annual Giving Program’s objective is to contact all of our alumni, parents and friends so that the university can touch base with you annually. We want to make sure you are receiving the Oregon Quarterly and your college or department newsletter. We also want to share news with you and share information on the needs of the university and how your gift to UO can help.

Q:	Why can’t you just send something in the mail?
A:	The Annual Giving Program does try to contact UO alumni, parents and friends through the mail. However, we also make contacts through our telephone outreach program because the majority of alumni enjoy having the chance to speak with a UO student and make a personal connection.

Q:	Why do you ask for money?
A:	Since only half of the university’s operating budget is covered by state support and tuition, gifts from our alumni, parents and friends are necessary to make up the difference. Every gift to the University of Oregon, no matter the size, makes a big difference in transforming the lives of UO students, faculty and the community. They support top-quality teaching facilities, cutting-edge research opportunities, world-class faculty, access to a university education for qualified students and so much more.

Q:	Why do I get so many calls from the University of Oregon?
A:	We do our best to call each household only once, maybe twice a year. You may see us on your caller id more times than that because our students want to talk with you so you get a chance to touch base with them and they get a chance to share information with you. We can’t do that if we leave a message.

Q:	Why does my gift make a difference?
A:	Gifts of any size make a difference. It is your participation that is important to us. Alumni giving participation plays a big role in determining school ranking and grants made to the university by outside sources. It is also one of the best measures of how graduates feel about their school and the education they received. Your participation is a great way to demonstrate your feelings for UO!

Q:	What are you calling on behalf of?
A:	The Annual Giving Program calls for every school, college and academic program of UO as well as the Parents Program and the UO Libraries.

Q:	I give when I receive a call from my school or college. Is that different from your call?
A:	No, its not different. The Annual Giving Program calls on behalf of your college or school. So, when you hear from one of our student callers and make a pledge, you’re giving back directly to the school, college or program of your choice.

Q:	What happens after I make a pledge through the Annual Giving Program?
A:	After confirming the dollar amount you wish to give and the area you want that gift to support, you can either take care of your gift over the phone with a credit card or request a pledge confirmation letter be sent to you. If you opt for the letter, you will need to return the bottom portion of the letter with your payment. Also, if we have your e-mail address, we will send you a confirmation within a few days.

Q:	When can I expect my call?
A:	Our fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30. We try to reach everyone during this time span. We call Sunday-Friday in the late afternoon and evenings because that is when we reach most Ducks.

Q:	Where are you calling from?
A:	The Annual Giving Program is located in Agate House, on 18th and Agate Street in Eugene. We’re across the street from Hayward Field, behind Agate Hall.