National Day of Love® originated from a vision held by one of our founding members—a day dedicated to bringing people together to celebrate love. This special day is observed annually on the third Saturday of March.

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The Banks Foundation, Inc. sponsors the National Day of Love®. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering families to reach their full potential through love and education. We are committed to providing scholarships, sponsorships, and community outreach opportunities to support the educational journey of students. Our team works to create a positive impact by fostering a love for learning and equal access to educational resources. Through our initiatives, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

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Here's How We're Celebrating Love Through Our Community Partners

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Cunningham Children’s Home is an exemplary child welfare and educational services agency providing caring support and therapeutic intervention to more than 953 youth and families each year through comprehensive programs including residential treatment, special education, and community-based services.

 

For the National Day of Love 2026, Cunningham will host a field trip for their students to visit a college to expose them to math and science. Students gain curiosity in science, technology, and math while also being exposed to a college campus—helping them envision futures rooted in possibility, achievement, and hope.​ ​ During the field trip, students will also learn the importance of developing a love for others and a love for learning. Separately, Cunningham's staff will teach the children that love is shown through generosity, kindness, and purposeful acts. They will also receive a sensory toy to let them know that they are loved and help them heal from trauma.

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The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Morrill Engineering Program (MEP) empowers African American, Hispanic, and Native American engineering students, supports their success as scholars, and leverages a community of students, staff, and alumni to achieve excellence in engineering. The program hosts activities throughout the year to enhance the student experience and is open to all students who seek its services.

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In honor of the National Day of Love, Charles and Diedre Banks established the National Day of Love Endowment to award students who exemplify leadership, community involvement, and academic success. Each year, MEP selects qualifying students to receive this award. To help further the needs of outstanding students and support our endowment at the Morrill Engineering Program, visit their website here. Celebrate our long list of outstanding scholars here.

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The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) works to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community. Through volunteer efforts, these organizations give back to their communities.

 

For the National Day of Love, NSBE & SHPE (mentioned below) students will purchase and donate essential items to those in need across Champaign-Urbana. They will distribute toiletries, clothing, snacks, blankets, and other necessities to people on the streets as a practical expression of love.​

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The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) is raising a generation of future leaders who excel in engineering. SHPE changes lives by empowering the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support, and development. 

 

For the National Day of Love, NSBE (mentioned above) and SHPE students will purchase and donate essential items to those in need across Champaign-Urbana. They will distribute toiletries, clothing, snacks, blankets, and other necessities to people on the streets as a practical expression of love.

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Outreach Carol Stream is a multi-purpose, neighborhood resource center. Its goal is to help neighborhood residents work together to build a stronger community. Staff minister to each person’s physical, social, and spiritual needs. ​Outreach transforms lives and communities by creating opportunities where barriers exist; by loving its neighbors in word and deed; and by shining the light of hope on all peoples’ God-given potential. 

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For the National Day of Love, high school students in Outreach Carol Stream's after-school program will perform acts of love and write an essay on their experiences showing love to others. Essay contest winners will receive a monetary award to be used toward their College Tour in March 2026. Each year, Outreach Carol Stream takes eligible high school students on tours of college campuses. Students are exposed to endless opportunities through higher education and empowered to achieve more.

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High school students also receive a care package with gifts that they have selected for themselves to remind them that they are loved, cared for, and empowered to achieve more.

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