A small, unexpected expense—like a flat tire, a prescription refill, or the cost of baby formula—can sometimes be all it takes to throw a student off course. A group of Austin Community College District (ACC) students set out to change that, launching a student-led fundraising initiative to provide emergency aid for their peers.

Since May 2024, students have worked to bring their vision to life, raising $22,000 (and counting!) for Micro-Aid, a program that provides small-scale financial assistance through digital gift cards. The aid is designed to help students cover urgent, short-term needs that might otherwise derail their education.

The effort culminated in a fundraiser dinner on December 17, 2024, where students led every aspect of the event, from planning and logistics to food service and bartending. More than 50 student volunteers played a role, from organizing to bartending. Congressman Greg Casar served as the Honorary Event Committee Chair, helping bring visibility to the cause. 

Now, the next step is working with the College to set up a process for students to access the aid. Once in place, funds will be distributed through Micro-Aid in the form of digital gift cards, providing immediate assistance with minimal barriers. The application process is designed to be private and secure, ensuring confidentiality for applicants. Once approved, students receive the gift card via their school email, with software securely tracking purchase receipts, purchasers, and recipients.

This initiative is about more than just one-time aid—students who apply for Micro-Aid will also be connected with long-term resources and support through the ACC Student Advocacy Center, ensuring they have access to the tools needed to stay on track.

While this fundraiser was a huge success, students aren’t stopping here. More fundraising efforts are in the works, and the ACC community will have opportunities to support the initiative.

More Financial Support with SGA

The Student Government Association (SGA) also is working to bring financial guidance and coaching to students. The SGA has partnered with Cristina Ayala, former Finance Director for the Texas State Democratic Party, to provide students with professional training in nonprofit and political fundraising. These sessions prepare students for future careers, offering resume-building experience and hands-on coaching—all while directly contributing to the Micro-Aid fund.

For more information on MicroAID and other student resources, visit micro-aid.org.