Bears Fund created with Division I sports competition

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The Bears Fund the annual fund-raising program designed to provide financial support to both men's and women's intercollegiate athletics at Southwest Missouri State University has been in existence since 1981, according to a university press release. |ret||ret||tab|

The fund was established in conjunction with SMSU's decision that year to move into Division I competition in all men's and women's sports, with the exception of football, which competes at the Division I-AA level.|ret||ret||tab|

The release described the primary reason behind the Bears Fund as "the need for additional revenue to help support the athletic budget in the recruiting and scholarship areas." |ret||ret||tab|

Although the athletic department does receive a portion of its operating funds from the institution, according to the release, it has become increasingly apparent that private contributions are needed to offset the growing demands of competing at a higher level of competition.|ret||ret||tab|

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Main goal|ret||ret||tab|

The main goal of the Bears Fund, the release said, is to provide a base of professional fund-raising services, athletic communications and other assistance through which friends and alumni may enhance the development and achievements of SMSU Bears athletic teams.|ret||ret||tab|

Bears Fund donations are divided into several categories ranging from the "Cub Club," applying to contributions of $50 or more, all the way up to the "Champions Club," with contributions of $2,000 or more, the "All-American Club," with contributions of $4,000 or more, and the "Hall of Fame Club," with contributions of $10,000 or more.[[In-content Ad]]