WMU launches United Way campaign to 'Change the Story'

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—United Way and Western Michigan University are again striving to make gains in education, income, health and other basic needs for individuals and families in the region with the launch Monday, Oct. 10, of this year’s campaign.

President John M. Dunn and Robert Miller, associate vice president for community outreach, will speak at 11 a.m. in the Lee Honors College lounge.

Campaign objectives

The "Change the Story" campaign has defined four long-term, measurable objectives:

• Improve high school graduation rates to 83 percent by 2030 and reduce racial and economic disparities in graduation rates. Currently, African-American males only graduate at a rate of 52 percent.
• Increase the number of economically stable households in the region by supporting stable and affordable housing and income for families in need. The goal is to move 8,500 families into financial stability by 2025. In Kalamazoo County, 42 percent—including 24 percent who are working—are one unexpected expense away from having to decide between paying utilities or buying gas.
• Improve infant mortality rates in families of color and low-income families, resulting in better birth outcomes and long-term health benefits for those children. Of every 1,000 babies born to low-income families in Kalamazoo County, nearly 10 die before their first birthday. It’s worse for African-American babies; more than 15 die per 1,000 births before their first birthday. United Way’s goal is six or less per 1,000.
• Ensure that the region has safety net programs in place to help individuals and families access basic necessities such as food and shelter in times of need. Forty-nine percent of adults and children in Kalamazoo County are food insecure—meaning they do not know where their next meal will come from.

Prize drawing

Employee pledge cards should arrive soon. Any new, undesignated gift of at least $50 to United Way, or an undesignated gift that has increased from the previous year by $25, will automatically be entered into a drawing for a new vehicle of choice up to a value of $30,000 from one of the sponsoring dealerships. In order to be included in this special drawing, pledge forms must be received at the WMU Office of the President by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15. The winner will be announced by the United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region on Wednesday, Dec. 14.

Learn more about United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region at changethestory.org.

For more news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.

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