Transforming Communities: How GCU’s Unique Fundraising Campaign Is Revitalizing Local Areas

Phoenix, AZ (Feb. 20, 2025) – Grand Canyon University (GCU) is kicking off its first major fundraising campaign since becoming a nonprofit again in 2018. The goal? To support and uplift the inner-city neighborhood of Phoenix where the university is located.

This campaign will launch during the 75th Anniversary Amethyst Gala. What’s special about it is that the funds won’t go to traditional university needs like new buildings or sports facilities. Instead, they will support GCU’s Five-Point Plan, a community-focused initiative that has been in action since 2015. This plan aims to:

1. Support families in need: GCU partnered with CityServe to create a large warehouse on campus, offering free household goods valued at over $15 million to more than 74,500 families.
2. Make neighborhoods safer: A collaboration with the City of Phoenix has led to a significant drop in crime in the areas around GCU, with a 34% overall reduction in crime over five years.
3. Boost home values: Through partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, GCU has helped renovate 598 homes, contributing over $6 million toward these efforts.
4. Enhance K-12 education: GCU provides free tutoring and has awarded over 1,000 scholarships to low-income students through its Canyon Rising program.
5. Create jobs: By launching business ventures and providing employment opportunities, GCU has supported nearly 500 local workers and graduates.

President Brian Mueller emphasizes that this plan is already making a real difference in people’s lives. The fundraising efforts will help expand this positive impact even more.

Mueller also sees this campaign as a chance to unite people in a time when divide seems prevalent. “As Christians, serving others is a shared value,” he says. This initiative encourages communities to come together and foster a spirit of compassion and growth.