Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE CRUSADER DAY OF GIVING?
The Crusader Day of Giving is a 24-hour collaborative fundraising effort to support Brother Rice’s mission of providing financial assistance to deserving students. This special day amplifies the impact of every gift—regardless of size—through targeted matches and challenges from generous donors. Most importantly, it’s an opportunity for the entire Brother Rice community to Join the Crusade, raise funds for our students, and help close financial gaps not covered by tuition or endowed funds.
WHY MAY 5TH?
May 5th marks the feast day of Blessed Edmund Rice, which has been celebrated since his beatification by Pope John Paul II in 1996. On this day, we honor his inspirational life with a Brother Rice all-school mass, the Gold Key Raffle drawing, and the kick-off of our 6th annual Crusader Day of Giving—broadcast live on Brother Rice TV starting at 8:40 a.m. Join us in living out the Essential Elements and striving to “Pursue Excellence in all Endeavors.”
For nearly 70 years, Brother Rice High School has remained the most vibrant and successful all-boys Catholic high school on the southwest side of Chicago, offering young men opportunities to excel spiritually, academically, and athletically. The theme of "Exceptionalism" is evident in all aspects of our community—from students and families to alumni—shining through Brother Rice’s commitment to lifelong learning and the development of a strong moral compass, rooted in our motto: "Act Manfully in Christ Jesus."
WHY PARTICIPATE?
Providing students and families with a rigorous, Catholic, college-preparatory education requires dedication from an engaged and supportive community. Every gift—no matter the size—ensures that Brother Rice remains the #1 choice for young men seeking a Catholic education on the southwest side of Chicago. Alumni, parents, and friends all play a crucial role in sustaining this legacy of excellence.
IS THERE A CLASS COMPETITION?
Yes! From the Class of 1960 to the Class of 2024, every graduating class will compete to see who can rally the most individual donors.
Dollar amounts don’t matter—it’s all about participation.
We want to see which class can mobilize the most donors because we know there is strength in numbers! The winning class will earn the title of "Top Class in BR History" and receive a custom Brother Rice Water Bottle.
With over 20,000 alumni ready to rise to the challenge, which class will go down as the greatest in Brother Rice history? Step up, show your Rice Pride, and Join the Crusade!
IS IT SAFE TO MAKE MY GIFT ONLINE?
Yes! The security of your information is very important to us. We protect and secure all online donations to ensure the safety of your personal data.
CAN I MAKE A RECURRING GIFT?
Absolutely! You can make a recurring gift by clicking HERE. Please note that only the first payment processed between April 22 – May 7 will count toward Giving Day.
WHAT IS BROTHER RICE'S TAX-EXEMPT STATUS?
Brother Rice is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. All gifts made during the Crusader Day of Giving—and throughout the year—are tax-deductible. Brother Rice's federal tax ID is 36-2345181.
I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT TO GET INVOLVED. HOW CAN I GET IN TOUCH?
We are looking for volunteers from the Brother Rice community to help spread the word about the Crusader Day of Giving! Click HERE to learn how you can become a Crusader Day of Giving Ambassador, encourage participation, and inspire others to Join the Crusade.
For any additional questions, please contact Matt Kelly at mkelly@brrice.org.