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WMU gears up for campus United Way campaign

by Tonya Durlach

Sept. 6, 2011 | WMU News

United Way logo.
Greater Kalamazoo United Way
KALAMAZOO--Western Michigan University has set a goal of $300,000 for this year's campus United Way campaign, which begins Saturday, Sept. 10. The University also hopes to increase the number of employees and retirees who contribute by 10 percent over last year.

WMU raised a record amount during last year's campaign, exceeding its goal by 5 percent to move up from sixth to fifth place among the county's top-10 giving organizations. However, the number of WMU donors dipped slightly for the second year in a row. WMU President John M. Dunn says he is confident that employees, retirees and students will rise to meet the difficult challenge before them.

"Each year, the people of this University come through, giving generously to support local programs that directly impact the three pillars of a strong and sustainable society: education, income and health," Dunn says. "I know that again this year, we'll do our job to make sure Kalamazoo is synonymous with a high quality of life for all."

All campus contributions go to the Greater Kalamazoo United Way, and for every dollar given, 87 cents directly supports programs that improve Kalamazoo County.

By networking and creating lasting connections between people and organizations, United Way maximizes the value of every contribution, putting millions of additional dollars where they are needed most. Learn more

Campus campaign details

WMU's United Way Advisory Board will begin distributing pledge cards to all faculty, staff and retirees this week. Gifts can be made as:

Office directors and department chairs are urged to schedule United Way meetings in their areas as soon as possible. Representatives are available to talk briefly about United Way, distribute pledge cards and answer questions about contributions. Materials also are available for those who prefer to lead their own meetings.

To schedule a meeting, contact campaign organizers at wmu-united-way@wmich.edu.

Campaign incentives

United Way contributors who give a new or increased gift of at least $50 this year will be automatically entered into a drawing for a 2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe motorcycle.

Those who contribute early can also win prizes. WMU faculty and staff members who give any amount and return their pledge cards to the president's office by 5 p.m. Thursday will be eligible for weekly drawings to be held each Friday afternoon. Six drawings will take place beginning Friday, Oct. 7.

Learn more about the Greater Kalamazoo United Way and its partner agencies at kalamazoounitedway.org.