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RV LIVES, a virtual fundraising campaign launched by the Raritan Valley Community College Foundation to support RVCC students in need, has surpassed its initial goal of $100,000. The campaign, which was officially launched August 1, has already raised over $132,000.

“Our students need our support now more than ever. They have been uniquely challenged by the pandemic, and our goal is to keep them on trajectory and ever closer to achieving their educational goals.” said RVCC President Michael J. McDonough.

“We know many of our students are struggling with affording basics such as rent, food, general living expenses, and tuition,” added Mike Marion, Executive Director, RVCC Foundation. “That’s why this fundraising initiative focuses on an expansion of the Student Emergency Fund, scholarship support, resources for the RVCC Food Pantry, and related needs—areas that have a direct impact on helping students so they can persevere and continue their education.”

Other areas benefiting from the campaign include technology to support students’ transition to remote learning, new scholarships for students from underrepresented communities, as well as the “Emerging Heroes Nursing Scholarship.”

RVCC Nursing student Isabel Perez, a non-traditional student, understands firsthand the importance of the campaign. “Thank you for investing in those of us in our '50s who are running to the front lines. Your support, including for the new Emerging Heroes Nursing Scholarship, means the world to us,” said Perez.

So far, the RV LIVES campaign has received over 100 gifts, including three $25,000 gifts stimulated by a “match” challenge from a local donor. More than 60 donations were given by RVCC faculty and staff.

“It’s so gratifying to see the community rally in support of RVCC students—they are so worth of this outpouring,” said Stacey Kimmins, Chair, RVCC Foundation Board of Directors.

Contributions are still being accepted for the RV Lives campaign, which runs until mid-January. To support students through the campaign, or for additional information, contact Mike Marion at michael.marion@raritanval.edu or visit www.raritanval.edu/rvlives.

Ranked by WalletHub.com and Niche.com as the #1 community college in New Jersey, Raritan Valley Community College has been serving as an academic and cultural center for Somerset and Hunterdon County residents for over 50 years. The College has been nationally recognized for its service to the community, environmental stewardship, and commitment to diversity. It is home to a Planetarium, Science Education Institute and 3M Observatory; a 1,000-seat Theatre offering professional performances for all ages; and an Honors College for high achieving students.

The College offers more than 90 associate degrees and certificates, as well as career training, small business assistance through the Small Business Development Center, and professional development courses. RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 21, 2020

Media contact: Donna Stolzer, 908-526-1200, ext. 8383

PR #44