Parents raised a record $550,000 in gifts and pledges for the Parents Fund for Cal during the 1998-99 academic year, an all-time record for both number of gifts and total amount raised. Thank you to the almost 4,000 generous parents who contributed.

This year we hope to continue to broaden the base of parent participation and to provide the University with increased support to benefit each and every student at Cal.

As parents of Cal students, you will be asked to consider making a gift to the 1999-2000 Parents Fund for Cal. Many parents may ask:

What is the Parents Fund for Cal?

The Parents Fund for Cal is one component of the Chancellor's Millennium Fund, established to provide the University with critical operating revenues.

Where does the money go?

Today, state support accounts for just 34 percent of Berkeley's operating budget, down from 70 percent in the 1960s. Student fees account for only 16 percent of the operating budget. Cal must look to private donors to help fill this gap and maintain the quality of its academic programs.

Unrestricted gifts to the Parents Fund for Cal enable Chancellor Berdahl to recruit distinguished faculty, improve student life on and around campus, and ensure that Cal remains a viable, affordable option for all students. The Chancellor uses his discretion in allocating the money to programs with the greatest need or the greatest potential to enhance student life at Cal.

Why does Cal ask parents to give, when we already pay student fees and living expenses?

We ask parents because we know you are proud that your sons and daughters attend one of the nation's most respected institutions. You know first-hand the quality of a UC Berkeley education. Berkeley students enjoy rare opportunities, and parents share responsibility for sustaining those advantages.

How much should I give?

We ask that you consider making the Parents Fund for Cal one of your charitable giving priorities this year. Whether your gift to the 1999-2000 fund is $25, $250, or $25,000, we ask that you do give. Your participation is vital to sustaining the tradition of excellence in higher education that Cal has always represented.

How can I make a gift?

You will receive an appeal in the mail and a telephone call from a student asking you to support the 1999-2000 Parents Fund for Cal. If you'd like to make a gift right away, or if you'd like to serve on a committee of parent fundraising volunteers, please call Jennifer Cutting in University Relations at (510) 643-0415 or e-mail her at jc@dev.urel.berkeley.edu.