Raise your paddle
Help students cross the finish line
Fund-a-Need: In support of the Finish-Line Fund
Every student who begins a degree deserves the opportunity to finish it.
Many students start university with savings, scholarships and family support. But as they move into their second, third, and fourth years, financial pressure often increases. Savings run out, costs rise and unexpected challenges can put graduation at risk.
The Finish-Line Fund helps students overcome financial barriers late in their academic journey, providing targeted support that keeps them enrolled and moving toward graduation.
Your support helps students stay on track, complete their education and enter careers that strengthen communities throughout our region and beyond.
Your impact
- $25,000 helps five students with a semester of tuition and fees
- $10,000 helps fund a student's final year of study
- $5,000 helps a student remain enrolled for another semester
- $1,000 helps cover books and essential supplies
Every gift removes barriers.
What is fund-a-need?
Fund-a-Need is a live giving opportunity during the TRU Foundation Gala. Unlike an auction, every gift directly supports this year's featured cause.
How does the paddle raise work?
During the 2026 TRU Foundation Gala Fund-a-Need, the auctioneer will invite guests to make gifts at a series of giving levels. To participate, simply raise your numbered paddle when the giving level is right for you. Everyone that raises their paddle at that level, gives at that level. Once the auctioneer has acknowledged your gift, you can complete the pledge information on the back of the paddle card.
What happens after the paddle raise?
Immediately following the paddle raise, guests will complete their pledge card/paddle and hand it to the designated event volunteer. Then guests will pay for their pledge at the checkout table before they leave for the evening (located in the Mountain Room).
Do I receive an auction item?
No. Unlike a traditional live auction, Fund-a-Need is a direct charitable contribution. Every dollar raised supports students.
Can I participate at any amount?
Yes. A range of giving levels will be offered during the evening, allowing guests to support students at a level that is meaningful to them. Every gift helps build a better future for TRU students.
Can I make my gift before Gala?
Yes. Anyone may contribute to the Finish-Line Fund at any time at tru.ca/fundaneed or when purchasing a Gala ticket.
I missed my chance at the event. Can I still help students make it to graduation?
Yes. Anyone may contribute to the Fund-a-Need cause at any time at tru.ca/fundaneed.
I can’t make it to Gala. How can I still help?
You can purchase a Guest in Spirit ticket. Your name will be featured on our Guest in Spirit display, and your name will be mentioned during the Fund-a-Need paddle raise. 100 per cent of your Guest in Spirit ticket and any additional donation you make will be directed to the Fund-a-Need cause and is fully tax deductible.
Will I receive a tax receipt?
All donations made through Fund-a-Need will receive a charitable tax receipt in accordance with CRA regulations.
Help students stay enrolled. Help students graduate. Raise your paddle for the Finish-Line Fund.
