We, the folks who make up Chico State's Department of Athletics, are always feeling the love from our Wildcat Family. Yesterday, on Valentine's Day, and in the midst of Chico Love Week, that affection was especially apparent.
 
The Wildcats' fans, friends, student-athletes, staff, and faculty made Chico State's second annual Giving Day another great day to be a Wildcat. 
 
"I'd like to thank all of our Wildcat Family that supported our student-athletes for our Giving Day campaign. Your generosity is inspiring," said Chico State Director of Athletics Anita Barker. "You are always there for your Wildcat Family and yesterday was proof of that commitment. From all of the current Wildcats, we thank you!"
 
We know that many who gave—if not all—have already volunteered their time and opened their checkbooks following the Camp Fire. In fact, many of our current student-athletes and alumni did. So, we are honored by the generosity you have shown to us as well. We do not take it lightly. 
 
"I continue to be impressed with the level of commitment and support our alums and friends have for the Chico State Athletic programs," said Director of Development Rob Talley. "We truly appreciate all everyone did in making this Giving Day a successful event."
 
As of 1:45 p.m. Friday, the official tally stood at 423 donors who had given close to $61,000. However, there are a few checks still coming in that will raise both of those totals, getting us even closer to our 500-donor goal.
 
We are also pleased to announce that out student-athletes also saw the "big picture" on giving day. At our morning rally in which teams were to compete for an $850 prize pledged by administration and coaching staff, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee co-presidents Claire Wayne and Dylan Smith announced a plan to have the donors give that money to the Hungry Wildcat Food Pantry through its Chico Cares campaign instead. 
 
"Part of being the Wildcat Family is supporting our fellow students through the pantry," Wayne said. "We couldn't think of a better way to start Giving Day."
 
If you have not yet had a chance, there is still time to give. After all, we're almost 90 percent of the way to that goal and we believe we can still get there with your help!
 
To donate, simply CLICK HERE or text chicoathletics to 71777. Once you click on the text response, make sure you scroll down to your desired team and click the donate button. 
 
Again, thank you to all who gave. Our hearts are full on this day after Valentine's Day!