Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Back the ‘Birds? 
Back the ‘Birds is a 24-hour event aimed at maximizing awareness and engagement in the community while fundraising for causes that will support and encourage all our student-athletes to reach new heights on the national and international stage. 

When is Back the ‘Birds? 
Back the ‘Birds kicks off at midnight Pacific Time on Tuesday, September 17 and finishes at 11:59 PM. And while Back the ‘Birds may only be 24 hours, the celebrations will continue at our Homecoming game on Friday, September 20. 

How can people get involved? 
Most of the Back the 'Birds participation is online where people can give, share messages to boost their favourite Thunderbirds team, and encourage others to participate. In addition to this, to build anticipation and engagement, special challenges will be set throughout the day that, if accomplished, will ‘unlock’ additional funds for their team or cause. Everyone can watch the total update in real-time on the Back the ‘Birds website. 

What makes my donation on September 17 special? 
On September 17, your contribution can make an even bigger impact, thanks to generous members of the UBC community. Your Back the ‘Birds gift could be boosted by matching and challenge funds, unlocking even more support for your favourite team. Be part of a day that showcases the spirit and generosity of the UBC Thunderbirds community. 

Why does UBC Thunderbirds Athletics have Back the ‘Birds? 
Back the ‘Birds is about more than just philanthropy—it creates a sense of pride in being part of UBC. It is a day that showcases what our broader Thunderbird community can achieve together in just 24 hours.  

What difference can one day really make? 
Days of giving are about the power of many. By joining forces, they can have a greater impact than any one person could on their own. In only 24 hours, donors and supporters can accomplish something transformative! 

Back the ‘Birds Challenges  

What are Back the ‘Birds Challenges?  
Challenges are a unique way for you to amplify the impact of your donation on September 17. When a challenge meets its set goal, additional funds are unlocked, giving extra support to the cause you care about most. 

How are challenge funds allocated to Back the ‘Birds teams and causes? 
The allocation of challenge funds varies with each challenge. Details can be found on this year’s challenges page. 

What is the Promo Code Challenge? 
A postcard was sent to some UBC varsity alumni and athletics donors to invite them to join Back the ‘Birds. By using this optional promo code when making a donation, you could help your favourite team to unlock an extra $500. Promo codes are eligible for use on September 17 and only one code per person, per team will be counted towards the Challenge. 

Making a gift  

How can I make a gift to Back the ‘Birds?

• • Donate online at backthebirds.ubc.ca
  • Call us at 1-877-717-GIVE between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm PST
  • Send in your donation by mail
  • Complete the Printable Gift Form
  • Make your cheque payable to the University of British Columbia
  • Mail to:
  •  UBC Annual Giving
  •  500-5950 University Blvd
  •  Vancouver BC, V6T 1Z3
  • *If possible, please send your cheques or donation slips in advance of September 17 to count towards the Back the 'Birds total.

Is it safe to give online? 
Yes, UBC uses a secure payment processing system. 

Is there a minimum donation amount? 
No, every gift makes a difference and will receive a tax receipt in accordance with CRA guidelines. 

Can I make more than one donation? 
Yes! You can donate as many times as you like. If you would like to give to multiple teams in a single credit card transaction, please call us at 1-877-717-GIVE between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm PST. Otherwise, please visit the online pages of your favourite teams and give.  

Please note that for each Back the ‘Birds Challenge, only one gift per donor per team will be counted. And for our Promo Code Challenge, one promo code per donor per team will be counted. 

Can I make a donation before September 17? 
Yes! All gifts before September 17 will count towards our Back the ‘Birds total. Just keep in mind that some challenges are time-sensitive and will require gifts to be made on September 17. More information can be found on the Back the ‘Birds Challenges page.   

Can I make a monthly donation to my favourite Thunderbirds team?  
Yes, you can sign up for monthly giving when you make your Back the ‘Birds gifts. Just choose the monthly donation type and the amount that you would like to donate each month and we’ll do the rest. You will receive a tax receipt in accordance with CRA guidelines for your first gift automatically. Another tax receipt detailing all your monthly gifts will be sent in February next year. 

Will I get a tax receipt? 
Donors will be issued official receipts in accordance with the rules of the Canada Revenue Agency. The “Cardholder Name” field will be used on the tax receipt and must match the billing details you provide. If there is a discrepancy, you will not be able to claim your tax receipt. 

What will you do with my information? 
Your information is collected under the authority of section 26(c) of the British Columbia Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. UBC will use this information to process your gift, maintain contact and keep you up to date with university information, events and fundraising. We will not disclose your identity and contact information unless you authorize us to do so. UBC does not sell, rent or trade donor lists. 

Other ways to get involved 

Besides giving, how can I help make Back the ‘Birds a success? 
Your involvement in Back the ‘Birds goes beyond just making donations. You can also play a major role in spreading the word to your community. Share the excitement with your friends and family using #UBCBacktheBirds. For more ideas and resources on how you can contribute, visit our Get Involved page. And if you are in Vancouver on September 20, join us at this year’s Homecoming Football Game.