Greater Nevada Credit Union members, University of Nevada, Reno alumni and other donors rallied over the last few months to raise money during "It's Time to Support the Band," a fundraising campaign to benefit the University's Marching Band, known as the "Pride of the Sierra." With end-of -year donations, Greater Nevada's $15,000 matching-gift challenge was met.

During the men's basketball game on Feb. 6 between the Nevada Wolf Pack and Colorado State Rams, representatives from Greater Nevada Credit Union presented a check to the University and the marching band for $35,000, which includes the matching $15,000 and an initial gift of $20,000 from the credit union. 

Greater Nevada Credit Union launched the fundraising campaign last year with a pledge of three, annual $20,000 gifts, plus the three-year, matching-gift program through which Greater Nevada Credit Union could contribute up to $15,000 annually. In addition, Greater Nevada Credit Union held a branch contest selling $1 Wolf Pack Marching Band drum cards. 

Through these joint fundraising efforts between Greater Nevada and the University, nearly $60,000 was raised during the first year of the campaign.

"Through this fundraising campaign, Greater Nevada Credit Union has demonstrated terrific leadership and creativity, and has set a vital foundation for the Marching Band," said University President Marc Johnson. "This effort signals a commitment to students, as well as to arts, music, athletics and education, all of which contribute to the vibrancy of this region."

All money raised helps to fund band scholarships, cover travel expenses and hire additional instructional staff. A separate University fundraising campaign is underway to raise $85,000 in cash and pledges by March 1 to purchase new band uniforms. To date, $35,000 in cash has been received, with another $30,000 verbally pledged over the next three years.

"We are so excited that the community joined us in our exciting new partnership with the University of Nevada marching band and we are happy to see the band continue to entertain northern Nevada families and help support Wolf Pack Athletics," said Greater Nevada Credit Union Chief Operating Officer Dean Altus.

To learn more about supporting the Wolf Pack Marching Band, a major ensemble of the Department of Music in the University's College of Liberal Arts, contact Greater Nevada Credit Union, 775-882-2060, or give online.

Greater Nevada Credit Union is a financial cooperative that has served Nevada consumers since 1949. As northern Nevada's largest credit union, it has nearly 46,000 members and $440 million in assets. Anyone living or working in northern Nevada is eligible to join Greater Nevada. For more information, visit gncu.org.