AUFD FAQs
Click on a question below to reveal
answers to AUFD's most frequently asked questions
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Why are some gifts listed twice in the gift fund list? 
» In some instances, gifts can be listed twice.
» Numbers that begin with 3xxxx are considered "spendable" funds. This type of fund allows the university to spend the money immediately towards the purpose of the fund.
» Numbers that begin with 6xxxx are considered "endowed" funds. This type of fund can be an endowed gift fund or an endowed scholarship fund.
» An endowed fund is a gift that may be designated for a specific educational purpose. Examples might include a lecture series, student recognition awards, faculty research in a particular academic or creative area, or tuition assistance. This support broadens Oakland's undergraduate experience and ensures that we continue to offer the finest possible college education. To create an endowed fund, a minimum gift of $25,000 is required. Multiple options exist for the timing and method of funding.
» An endowed scholarship is to specifically provide financial support for students. To create an endowed scholarship, a minimum gift of $50,000 is required. An endowed scholarship fund creates a deeply rewarding bond between donors and students. It provides a way to touch someone in a very real and lasting way – changing the direction of a life and impacting its development for years to come.
What is the All-University Fund Drive?
» The All-University Fund Drive is an annual fundraising effort that provides all Oakland University employees and former employees an opportunity to support their favorite programs at OU, United Way or Black United Fund.
Why should I give to Oakland?
» Employees are the heart of our university. Every day, you make a difference at OU by sharing your ideas, talents and abilities. Your participation in the AUFD is just one more way that you can join together with your colleagues to show your support for the university and make OU even stronger. Your participation in the AUFD signifies your commitment to Oakland. Please give today!
» As an employee of this distinctive university, you understand the value of a college education. But did you realize that Oakland allocates more than $100 million per year in scholarship and financial aid to more than 50 percent of our student body? Your personal gift to student scholarships through the annual AUFD helps to ensure current and future students receive an extraordinary education.
» Faculty, staff and alumni giving rates heavily influence corporate and foundation gifts to OU. They look for a high level of support from our closest constituents.
» Your support during AUFD will help OU to achieve success.
How much should I give?
» You determine the size and designation of your gift according to your own charitable interests, your personal willingness to give and your financial capacity. No gift is too small.
When is the 2012-2013 AUFD Launch Party?
» The 2012-2013 AUFD Launch Party will be held Monday, October 15th, at the Oakland Center from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. This event includes a complimentary continental breakfast. All OU faculty and staff members are invited to the AUFD Launch Party, but RSVPs are suggested. RSVP to giving@oakland.edu.
How does the AUFD help United Way and Black United Fund?
» Gifts made during the AUFD designated to an OU fund stay here at Oakland University and benefit our students and programs. The United Way and the Black United Fund are other worthy causes, which support needs in the community. Gifts to the United Way or Black United Fund do not benefit OU and go directly to the organization.
How is faculty and staff participation measured?
» Faculty and staff participation is measured by the number of current active faculty, staff and former employee donors divided by the total number of current active faculty, staff and former employees. Participation is measured by a cash gift, whether that gift is made via payroll deduction, an outright gift of a check, credit card or a through a pledge.
GIFT RELATED QUESTIONS
What is the last date a gift or pledge is eligible to receive the President's match?
» The AUFD campaign runs October 15 through December 14, 2012.
» All pledges and gifts must be received by the Gift Accounting Office before close of business on Friday, December 14, 2012 to be counted in the totals and to be eligible for the President’s match.
Will others know the amount of my gift or where I direct my contribution?
» No. Oakland University does not release gift amounts or designations without a donor's permission.
Will I receive a year-end tax receipt from Oakland University?
» Oakland University sends calendar year-end tax receipts. The Gift Accounting Office also sends gift acknowledgements (which also may serve as tax receipts) throughout the year as gifts are received.
» Oakland University faculty and staff who give via payroll deduction can find the total amount of their annual charitable contributions to OU and other charitable organizations (e.g. United Way) in their Sail account.
» If you have additional questions regarding your contributions to Oakland University, contact the Office of Annual Giving at (248) 364-6160 or giving@oakland.edu.
» For questions regarding the charitable deduction withheld from your pay, contact Payroll at payroll@oakland.edu
How can I make a contribution to the AUFD?
» There are several ways to make a gift to the AUFD, please visit Oakland.edu/aufd for information.
How does payroll deduction work?
» Payroll deduction is one of the fastest, easiest and most convenient ways to make a gift. By completing the online payroll deduction form, you specify the amount you would like automatically deduct from each paycheck, the start date, and where your support should be designated. You can have an amount deducted until further notice or until a specific total has been reached.
What giving options are available?
» There are several giving options available to OU employees. If you prefer to make your gift now, you can make a contribution via cash, check or credit card.
» If you prefer to make your gift over a period of time, you can give via payroll deduction or make a pledge and pay the pledge in regular installments.
» For more information about these giving options, contact the Office of Annual Giving at at (248) 364-6160 or giving@oakland.edu.
Can I decide how my gift will be used?
» Yes. There are 800 Oakland University funds to choose from, and each fund has a specific purpose. Log on to oakland.edu/funds to search for the fund that matches your passion..
» Many donors choose to make an unrestricted gift during the AUFD to be spent where the need is greatest. Others might give to support such things as student scholarships, technology improvements, the library, athletics or one of the many academic departments or programs.
What if my spouse works for a matching gift company?
» If your spouse works for a company with a matching gift program, your gift may double or even triple. Please check with the company's Human Resources department to request your company’s matching gift form. Then, just complete the form and enclose it when returning your contribution to OU.
My spouse also works at the University, will our joint gift count for both of us?
» Yes. If you and your spouse are both employed by Oakland University, you may contribute either separately or jointly. If you are making a joint gift, please indicate this on the form of payment you choose to use.
Is there a way to designate a one-time payroll deduction (rather than spread out over 12 pay periods)?
» You certainly can. When completing the online payroll deduct form, click on the "1" payment option. Then please specify a month.
Will my gift be recognized?
» We do acknowledge our donors, but you can choose to remain anonymous.
Is there a minimum amount for a donation?
» There is a $5 minimum for all gifts including cash, check, credit card and payroll deduction gifts (by pay period). All gifts of $5 or more will be counted in the campaign.