2007 Campaign Midpoint Report

 
    United Way of the Midlands volunteers, supporters and staff showed up at the Embassy Suites on Stone Ridge Boulevard at the crack of dawn Friday, October 19 to report the progress of the 2007-2008 Fundraising Campaign to the community. Since the campaign kicked off at the 2007 Day of Caring on Sept. 14, more than 200 volunteers have put their 400-plus hands to work securing a large

 
percentage of the 2007-2008 campaign goal of $11.7 million.
    Dennis Coker, executive director of The Free Medical Clinic and United Way of the Midlands board member, addressed the gathering of more than 125 area business and industry representatives who were reporting results of their campaigns.

     Coker spoke on behalf of the 80-plus certified partner agencies that are eligible to receive designated funds and implement programs supported through United Way of the Midlands' Community Impact Fund.
    "Thank you for the efforts your companies have made to bring in these funds," said Coker. "Contributions to United Way of the Midlands aid partner agencies in offering the programs that

 
help the individuals and families we serve and gives them hope to make it through the dark times in their lives. Those people can not afford for you to fail."
    After hearing success stories and the incredible accomplishments of each of the campaign divisions, it was time for the announcement of the overall progress.
    United Way of the Midlands 2007-2008 Campaign Co-Chair, Mary
Kennemur, announced that the organization has reached 50% of the goal of $11.7 million during a midpoint meeting this morning.  This significant accomplishment comes after a setting a record of $10.8 million last year and is $1 million more than was raised at this point in the campaign last year.
       "Strong community and corporate support puts us on pace to achieve our aggressive goal," Kennemur said.  "Last year at this same time we had reached 37% of the total.  Having raised $5.8 million just one month into the campaign shows that Midlands' residents are
 
 responding when they are asked to provide access to food and emergency shelter, help children and youth succeed, promote financial security and independence, and improve people's health right here in the Midlands."
    It's not too late to begin a workplace giving campaign.  More than 200 community volunteers have helped United Way of the Midlands contact area businesses and organizations and they want to do more.  One of these dedicated team members will help make it easy and fun.
    "We had a great beginning.  We've
had an exciting announcement about our progress compared to last year," said Steve Morrison, Campaign Co-Chair.  "Now we are calling on everyone to keep up the momentum to help us have a strong finish."
    The funds are used to provide basic needs, help children and youth succeed, promote financial security and independence, and improve people's health.
 
    "The funds we raise stay right here in the Midlands, creating opportunities for long lasting change right where you live," said Kennemur.
Those 200 volunteers along with United Way Board and staff are committed to helping meet and exceed the $11.7 million goal.  Just contact Mike Gray, vice president of resource development, at 803-733-5422 or visit www.uway.com to learn more, request information or donate online.
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