Every little bit helps as the Missouri Southern Foundation kicks off its first capital campaign.

The main areas the Foundation is hoping to enhance include the international mission, technology and equipment, athletic and recreational facilities and professional development.

“We started out with more than $28 million worth of projects to look at,” said Curt Betebenner, director of the Missouri Southern Foundation. “Then we took it to the community to help prioritize the projects.”

The Foundation settled on just under $8 million worth of projects to fund, making this the largest financial endeavor in Southern’s history.

“It is my expectation to surpass that goal if at all possible,” said University President Julio León.

Pledges total $3 million thus far.

“We have been in the quiet phase of the campaign for two years now, it’s nice to get it to the general public where there is more activity and support,” Betebenner said.

“It is important that those who are older, out of school and have a good livelihood support our public schools, said Larry Hickey, honorary chairman of the Missouri Southern Endowment and Capital Campaign.

Hickey helped his alma mater, the University of Kansas, raise $500 million for a capital campaign.

“The main thing is to be a booster and show support,” he said.

Students and alumni who are not yet in a position to make large contributions are still encouraged to support the campaign.

“Giving is all relative,” said Fred Osborn, member of the Foundation steering committee and president of Commerce Bank. “Five or $10 dollars is just as much help as a million.”

For those unable to contribute financially, Osborn encourages moral support and encouragement through on campus involvement and enthusiasm.

Osborn wants to see Joplin grow as a college town and thinks the campaign will have a strong impact on the community.

“In education today, if you are not moving ahead, you are backing up,” Osborn said.