Frequently Asked Questions

What is Scarlet & Give Back Day?
To celebrate Grinnell through philanthropy, Scarlet & Give Back Day was introduced in 2015 as a 24 hour giving day. This year’s event will run for 36 hours from 5:00 a.m. CT on Wednesday, April 13 through 5:00 p.m. CT on Thursday, April 14. Since its inception, Scarlet & Give Back Day has inspired more than 13,000 donors to support the College community with gifts totaling nearly $5.5 million. With your help, we will make this year’s Scarlet & Give Back Day another resounding success! 

Why should I participate?
Scarlet & Give Back Day is an opportunity to build community and create unity amongst alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents and friends. Gifts — of all sizes — provide much-needed support for the individualized programs and outstanding academic opportunities provided to students every day.  This year, your gift will go even further because Betsy Wolcott ’75, Tommy Erdei ’95, and Stephen Sandquist ’95, have pledged a $1 for $1 match for every gift up to a total match of $420,000.

How and when should I give to get the Scarlet & Give Back Day match?
Between now and April 14, your gift will count towards the matching gift. To make your gift:

• Online on this page right now or anytime before 5 p.m. CT on April 14.
• Mail a check payable to Grinnell College, which must be received by April 14. Mail to Annual Giving/Scarlet & Give Back Day, 733 Broad Street, Grinnell, IA 50112. 
• Make a stock transfer or donor advised gift that the College receives by 5 p.m. CT on April 14. Please email annualgiving@grinnell.edu to let us know you have initiated a gift. Gifts must be received by 5 p.m. CT on April 14.
• Call the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 866-850-1846 on Wednesday, April 13 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT) or Thursday, April 14 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT).

Can I direct my gift to an area important to me? Will it count towards the matching gift?
Yes, you may direct your gift to any area of the College important to you! All matching funds will support the matching gift donors’ funds of choice. To give to a fund not listed, use the "general" GIVE NOW button at the top of the page, select "Other," and write in your gift designation.

How can I help spread the word about Scarlet & Give Back Day?
We’d love to have your assistance spreading the word about this year’s Scarlet & Give Back Day. Please visit our Social Media Tool Kit for images and messages to post on your personal social media pages.

I still have a question. How can I get in touch?
Please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 866-850-1846 or send us an email at annualgiving@grinnell.edu.