Irvine Public Schools Foundation raised over $106,000 for Irvine’s schools at its annual Giving Day event on Oct. 16. 

Giving Day, a citywide event dedicated to uniting community members in supporting IUSD schools, asks residents to make donations and wear orange attire to represent Orange County. These donations are then matched by the City of Irvine and AutoNation Toyota, doubling the impact of every gift. These funds directly support programs such as STEAM education, mental health support, school nurses and athletic trainers. 

“Giving Day is more than a fundraiser—it’s the one day each year where the entire Irvine community wears orange, unites in purpose and visibly shows support for our schools,” president and CEO of IPSF Neda Eaton said. “The energy, spirit and sense of togetherness truly set it apart. Every contribution, big or small, helps ensure that Irvine continues to provide the highest quality educational experience for all students.”

Giving Day, which started in 1996 as a small awareness measure, has become an annual tradition that coordinates with school principals, parent teacher association leaders and IPSF ambassadors to distribute materials and promote participation with toolkits, signage and social media materials. According to Eaton, IPSF has donated a total of $115 million to IUSD since 1996. 

“It’s nice seeing everyone in Irvine supporting the same cause,” junior Irene Shin said. “Our education is really important so I think it’s a great way to support our schools.” 

IPSF will be hosting their annual Spirit of Excellence Gala in November, as well as additional community campaigns like Parents Appreciating Teachers and Staff in the spring.

For more information or to get involved in IPSF, visit https://ipsf.net/about-us/join-our-team/.