The annual campaign collects donations for nonprofits and charitable organizations that serve communities all over the state and beyond. All state entities, including University System of Georgia (USG) schools, participate in the annual fundraiser.

Last year, 1,361 Georgia Tech employees pledged $365,579 — a significant increase compared to recent years. This year’s goal is to raise $375,000 and have 1,500 employees participate. 

“When I look at Georgia Tech, we don’t see ourselves as an ivory tower separated from the world. We pride ourselves on being connected to the community,” said Joseph Hughes, professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering and chair of this year’s campaign. “The Charitable Campaign is another way in which we connect with the community.”

For the past eight years, Georgia Tech has been the recipient of the Governor’s Cup, which is awarded annually to the state institution with the highest average contribution per employee. Tech has won the Cup a total of 13 times. 

In 2015, Georgia Tech also was awarded for having the largest total increase in contributions and the highest level of employee participation. Hughes and the others on this year’s campaign leadership team hope more employees choose to be part of this year’s campaign. 

“A lot of people give in other ways, but even a small contribution to the campaign lets us say, as Georgia Tech, that we are invested in our local and state communities,” Hughes said. “It’s an important message.” 

Donations are accepted via payroll deduction on an ongoing basis, or as a one-time donation. For those who choose to give through payroll deduction, the contributions will begin in January 2016. Employees can give to a general fund or choose specific organizations to which they would like to direct their donations. Hughes emphasized the variety of organizations represented in the campaign.

“If you put in a search term on the site, you will probably find someone doing work in that area,” he said. The list of charities is managed by the state of Georgia and changes annually, so new options may be available this year. 

Employees can give via TechWorks or a paper pledge form through Sunday, Nov. 15. To learn more, or to set up a donation, visit www.charitable.gatech.edu.