The Western Challenge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Western Challenge?

The Western Challenge is a 24-hour online fundraising campaign that challenges alumni, students, employees, and friends to give back to support students in their favorite areas of Western while inspiring others to do the same.

The Western Challenge 2024 kicks off on Wednesday, April 24!

What is the difference between a "Challenge" and a "Matching Donation?"

You can maximize your impact by issuing your own Challenge or Matching Donation during the Western Challenge.

  • An example of a Challenge would be "I will contribute $200 if 10 donors give to (program) before midnight."  
  • An example of a Match would be: "I am matching $5 per donor, up to a total of $200 for all gifts made to (program.)"  

Dollar amounts and gift designations are set by the individual, and progress on each Challenge and Matching Donation is automatically updated on the campaign page.

What is a Western Challenge Advocate?

We rely on advocates to serve as online ambassadors to drive the effort. Visit the campaign page, click on the "advocates" tab, and register (it only takes 30 seconds!) As an advocate, you will receive a unique link to share on your social media. Your unique link will track the number of donors you inspired and dollars you raised on the campaign page!

Can I still give after April 24?

Of course! Your support is needed and appreciated all year, however, only gifts made during the Western Challenge campaign are counted toward The Western Challenge totals.

Where does my gift go?

YOU decide where your gift goes! Gifts can be designated to a specific school or college, athletics, the overall university and other various funds and scholarships. 100 percent of all gifts will be used as designated by the donor.

Does this include WIU-QC?

ABSOLUTELY! Two great campuses – one Leatherneck community!

Will my faculty/staff gift count towards The Western Challenge?

YES! Gifts from all WIU employees are counted towards The Western Challenge.

How Can I Help Spread the Word?

The Western Challenge is YOUR day, Leathernecks!

YOU can influence the success of the big day!

Is My Payment Secure?

Yes. All payments are processed through our secure giving website. Our giving forms also accept PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay and Google Pay!

Is My Gift Tax-Deductible?

Your gift is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law.

Can I Make A Recurring Gift?

YES! You can make a recurring gift online; however only payments made during the campaign will count for The Western Challenge totals.

More Questions?

Please email us at westernchallenge@wiu.edu or give us a call (309) 298-1874.