From #UCFTwitterMafia to #UCFamily

We know Knights are generous and actively support their local communities and UCF, so in support of #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day to celebrate the creative ways humankind has been helping each other during the pandemic, we asked the Knights community to share positive stories of themselves or other Knights and how they’re exemplifying community service during the global pandemic. And Knight Nation delivered!

Here is the story of Jan Garcia and her daughter, Britt:

“Allie, the 10-year-old daughter of @Libs407 knew Britt was stuck at home and lonely so she offered to be her virtual Zoom pal. They talked, they laughed, they showed each other their favorite things. Allie is amazing! Knights and their kids started stepping up to become virtual pals for people with disabilities stuck at home and it has been wonderful.

From day one people began to check in. Sarah Boudreaux said Parker would drop groceries off. Trace from Knightline Sports Network offered to bring us things we needed. Mama T and KZ brought us dinner on Easter. Robert Aronoff, Erik Kohler, and Chuck Franks all offered help. Hope Mack and Britt traded sweet videos. Rose Anne Powell called and listened to me cry from worry. Angela and Tyler Paul facetimed with Britt. @LynncheekAXO made us two UCF masks. We haven’t been out for a long time; it’s too dangerous right now with Britt, but I never feel alone. My gratitude for Knight Nation is immeasurable. #GoKnights #ChargeOn”

While we are inspired by these generous acts of kindness shared with us, we hope it inspires you make a positive change in the lives of others. You can show your generosity in a variety of ways during #GivingTuesdayNow, whether it’s helping a neighbor, advocating for an issue, sharing a skill or giving to causes. Every act of compassions counts.

If you feel compelled to support the UCF community during this time, there are various ways to get involved:

Make a gift to support student scholarships or faculty research
Write a note of appreciation to a Knight Nurse
Attend a virtual event
Sign up to be a volunteer with UCF Alumni
Donate non-perishables to the Knights Helping Knights Pantry (Pantries located on the main campus, Rosen campus and Medical City).