2025 Cal Gift Guide: Give With Heart, Spirit, and Berkeley Pride

This year’s Cal Gift Guide blends two kinds of meaningful giving: philanthropic gifts that directly support students and Blue-and-Gold essentials that bring Berkeley energy into everyday life. From fueling food security to uplifting disabled students, boosting campus arts, or gifting a perfectly spirited power bank, these selections honor what makes Berkeley bold, generous, and uniquely ours. Whether you’re celebrating a future Golden Bear, an alum, or anyone who loves Cal, here’s a curated guide that gives back while giving joy.

Philanthropic Gifts That Make a Difference

Graduate School of Journalism Crowdfunding Support the much-needed J-School program and help emerging journalists access resources, reporting opportunities, and training that build a strong foundation for the field.
Basic Needs SNAP Crowdfunding Campaign Help ensure students have reliable access to nutritious food through SNAP support. This gift strengthens the safety net that allows students to focus on academics instead of food insecurity.
The Cal Fund Support the areas of greatest need across the university. This flexible fund allows Berkeley to respond to urgent priorities, from financial aid to academic innovation, where it matters most.
Cancer Research Fund Advance groundbreaking cancer research by equipping scientists with tools, facilities, and support that accelerate the development of new therapies.
Berkeley Basic Needs Fund Help students thrive by supporting food assistance, housing security, and rapid-response relief offered through the Basic Needs Center.
Disabled Students’ Program Fund Ensure students with disabilities have access to accommodations, resources, and services central to navigating the full Berkeley experience.
Cal Spirit Fund Strengthen the energy of Berkeley traditions, from rallies to game day, by sustaining the programs that amplify Golden Bear pride.
Safe Bears Empower a community of parents and allies committed to student safety through education, advocacy, and proactive support initiatives.
Berkeley School of Education Fellowship Fund Invest in future educational leaders and researchers by supporting graduate fellowships that fuel innovative scholarship and equity-driven work.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Fund — College of Chemistry Help create a more inclusive learning environment by supporting efforts that expand access, belonging, and representation across STEM fields.
UC Berkeley Music Department Fund Enhance instruction, master classes, performances, and the creative work of students and faculty within Berkeley’s vibrant music community.
UC Choral Ensembles & UC Jazz Ensembles Fund Support music, equipment, uniforms, and programming that keep Berkeley’s vocal and jazz ensembles performing, evolving, and enriching campus life.
ECCO @ Berkeley: Education Is a Human Right Support student-led programming empowering first-generation immigrant and refugee students at Berkeley. Your gift helps provide campus tours, mentorship, and resources vital to higher-education success for this community.

Blue-and-Gold Gift Picks for This Year​

Raise a Glass to Cal Alumni Wines Celebrate the season with a selection of Cal alum–crafted wines, thoughtfully curated from this year’s standout favorites. Each bottle reflects the creativity and craft of Berkeley alums while giving back to the Golden Bears community, an elegant way to share Cal spirit at any gathering.
Cal Bears Flag (2′ x 3′) A bold, lightweight flag perfect for brightening dorm walls, apartments, or home offices, an instant upgrade to any Bear’s space.
AirPod Covers A simple, spirited accessory that keeps AirPods protected while showcasing unmistakable Cal style.
Portable Charging Bank A campus-life must-have. Keeps phones powered through long days of classes, club meetings, labs, or late-night studying.
Framed California Memorial Stadium Panoramic Photo (10″ x 30″) A striking panoramic view of Memorial Stadium, ideal for dorms or living rooms and a timeless tribute to Berkeley tradition.
Cal Sports Season Tickets A gift built on memories. Give someone the full experience of cheering at Berkeley games all year long.
Food Vouchers / Local Berkeley Gift Cards A thoughtful pick for any student navigating long days on campus. Perfect for fueling study breaks and supporting local favorites.
Water-Resistant Cal Bluetooth Speaker Compact and durable, ideal for outdoor hangouts, dorm rooms, or spontaneous playlists with friends.
Oski’s Cub Club Membership (Ages 2–13) A fun, family-friendly way to welcome the tiniest Golden Bears into Cal spirit with exclusive perks designed just for kids.
Greek Theatre and Zellerbach Hall Tickets Gift an unforgettable experience through live music, theatre, or dance at Berkeley’s most iconic venues.
Magnetic Wireless Power Bank (5000mAh) A sleek, travel-friendly charger that clicks into place and keeps devices running through busy academic days.
Renew Cardigan – Block C Logo Warm, classic, and embroidered with Cal pride, perfect for cooler months and layering year-round.
Roots of Fight UC Logo Socks A playful stocking stuffer with classic UC branding for everyday wear.

Whether you’re championing student programs or gifting something special to a loved one, each contribution strengthens the Berkeley community. This year, celebrate the holidays with gifts that honor resilience, creativity, and the Blue-and-Gold spirit that ties us all together.

Go Bears!