Bears Fund created with Division I sports competition

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.

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.

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."

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.

Main goal

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.

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.