Even the best-laid plans can be derailed by the unexpected. That’s why the Life Happens Fund exists—to offer timely, compassionate support to students facing sudden financial hardship.
Created by a former staff member and alum, this emergency fund provides one-time payments of $500 to $1,000 to students dealing with unforeseen challenges that could jeopardize their education. Whether it’s a broken pair of glasses, a car repair, or the need to leave an unsafe living situation, the fund helps students stay on track.
“It’s not for tuition or rent—it’s for the things you don’t know will happen,” says Gwen Campden, Associate Director of Student Services. “To have someone say, ‘You’re welcome here and we still believe in you, and we’ll get through this together,’ I think that’s the value of this fund.”
The fund has helped students displaced by wildfires, impacted by political unrest abroad, or facing family concerns. In each case, the message is clear: you’re not alone.
Doug Ozeroff, a retired staff member and RRU alum, knows this firsthand. He recalls his own rocky start in grad school and the support he received from faculty when life became overwhelming. Later, he witnessed his cohort rally around a classmate who couldn’t afford final tuition due to a family emergency. They quietly passed a hat so he could graduate with them.
“That inspired me,” says Ozeroff. “I wanted to create a way for students to pay it forward—because when life happens, even a small gift can make a big difference.”
Campden agrees. “One person donating to a student provides them with the financial means to overcome whatever their temporary obstacles are, but it also gives them encouragement to reach their fuller potential. That can be truly powerful.”
This Giving Day, Nov. 26–27, join us for 36 hours of giving to support Royal Roads students where they need it most. Whether you choose the Life Happens Bursary or another fund close to your heart, your gift—of any amount—helps create brighter opportunities for the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Visit RRUgivingday.ca today to make your donation.
