Through Give Back. Big., the Center for Civic Engagement provides monetary support to Nebraska students and organizations who want to make a difference but do not have enough financial resources to execute their plans.

“Anyone who has a desire to serve their community can do so, and we can support them in this endeavor through Give Back. Big.,” said graduate student assistant Phillip Foster.

All students are invited to submit an application that details how the award of $1,000 will make an impact. After applications are submitted, a voting period begins. A committee of students, faculty and staff choose one winner, and community members select the other. Last year, more than a thousand community members voted.

Applications are due Oct. 28. Voting for applications begins Nov. 1 and closes Nov. 15. Winners will be notified the week of Nov. 15 and honored at the Franco’s List ceremony on Nov. 18.

Give Back. Big. funds have helped students make a difference both locally and internationally. In the past, Give Back. Big. grants brought clean water systems and solar power to Kianjavato, Madagascar; sent 65 kids to summer camp for free; provided support for cancer-stricken families; and purchased journals for at-risk youth to detail track their progress.