Skidmore Cares celebrates 20 years of community giving

The Skidmore College community celebrated the 20th anniversary of Skidmore Cares, a beloved annual initiative that has raised more than $225,000 and collected more than 86,000 food, school supply, and personal care items for Saratoga County nonprofits since 2006. 

President Marc C. Conner praised the effort’s legacy of generosity and impact. 

“The impact of Skidmore Cares extends far beyond the thousands of donated items and dollars. It nurtures a spirit of generosity, thanksgiving, and compassion, giving us a moment to pause, recognize the challenges our neighbors face, and reaffirm our commitment to one another,” said Conner. “For two decades, that sense of responsibility and care has shaped our community — and it remains a cherished and defining part of the Skidmore experience.” 

Associate Director of Athletics Megan Buchanan and Associate Director of Civic Engagement Michelle Hubbs co-led the effort, working with departments across campus. 

“Skidmore Cares is one of the traditions that reminds me why our community is so special,” Buchanan said. “It’s a chance to support local organizations that make a real difference, and to show through action how much we care about the community around us.” 

Skidmore Cares thrives through broad campus collaboration and signature partnerships. Volunteers — including student-athletes and members of Benef-Action, Skidmore’s student volunteer club — help organize and deliver donations each year. 

Since 2010, the annual Skidmania concert, showcasing the creativity and talents of Skidmore students, has been a key fundraising partner. This year’s sold-out Skidmania ’75 raised about $15,000 for local nonprofits. 

“I think being part of something so large and impactful gives people a real sense of pride, and Skidmore Cares offers an easy way for everyone to contribute,” Hubbs added. “Every student who steps onto the stage during Skidmania is supporting Skidmore Cares in their own creative way. Anyone can be part of this effort — and the impact on our recipient agencies is both deep and meaningful.” 

Beneficiaries include Franklin Community Center; Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties; LifeWorks Community Action; Mary’s Haven; RISE Housing and Support Services; Salvation Army; Saratoga Center for the Family; the Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS program; Shelters of Saratoga; and Wellspring. 

Launched by Marie Glotzbach and her husband, President Emeritus Philip A. Glotzbach, Skidmore Cares began as a small holiday-season effort and has grown into one of Skidmore’s most enduring and unifying traditions.