U-M’s United Way campaign raises more than $1.25 million
From the University Record
The University of Michigan’s 2019 United Way employee giving campaign met its goal and raised more than $1.25 million.
The funds will benefit programs and services through the United Way of Washtenaw County Community Impact Fund or organizations designated by the donor.
The Community Impact funds are combined with appropriations from the city of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, the Community Foundation of Ann Arbor and others. This coordinated funding effort is directed toward meeting the most pressing health and human service needs in local communities.
The campaign co-chairs Tony Denton, senior vice president and chief operating officer for the U-M Health System, and Cynthia Wilbanks, vice president for government relations, thanked the university community for its support of the campaign.
“Thanks to everyone who supported our university campaign through education of the issues, generosity and compassion,” Denton said. “Because of your spirit and caring, our community will be better and stronger for all.”
In the campaign kick-off message, the co-chairs challenged the university community to make this year’s campaign the most successful to date. The challenge was successful with a 7 percent increase in participation over last year, the campaign reported.
“I am grateful to all who contributed to the success of this campaign,” Wilbanks said. “This year’s results show how much the U-M community cares and acts to make a difference for others in need.”
Pam Smith, president and CEO of United Way of Washtenaw, also thanked the U-M community.
“Thank you and congratulations to the University of Michigan for meeting their goal,” Smith said. “What a wonderful testament to the collective power of people to come together to help the community.
“I am honored to say thank you on behalf of all the families you help, my team, and the United Way Board of Directors — Go Blue!”
The campaign was enhanced by the generosity of several U-M units that donated prizes that were awarded during the campaign. The units include Athletics, Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, and MHealthy.
U-M United Way campaign organizers offer special thank yous to the more than 100 unit volunteers who participated in and gave their enthusiastic support to the campaign, which ended Dec. 31.
While the formal campaign has ended, the U-M United Way campaign office is still accepting pledges. To donate, call 734-763-3109.
By Deborah Schilz
Office of the Vice President for Government Relations
