WMU kicks off United Way campaign

Friday, October 02, 2009

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Oct. 1, 2009

KALAMAZOO--Western Michigan University officially began its annual United Way campaign this week with an intimate kickoff rally, during which WMU President John M. Dunn, campaign chair Bob Beam and other committee members finalized details for the monthlong campus drive.

This year's campaign will run through Saturday, Oct. 31. The University has established a goal of $240,000, which will contribute to the Greater Kalamazoo United Way's $9.11 million overall target. WMU faculty, staff and retirees have already given more than $35,000 in pre-kickoff gifts and pledges.

"WMU is one of Greater Kalamazoo United Way's top five contributing organizations," Dunn says. "Broncos understand this is a close, connected community. And when people are in need, we're right there to do whatever we can do to help.

"But, need is high, and it continues to grow. We need to do more. If each of us could give an additional $1 or $2 every week--five bucks here, 10 there--we could really extend our reach."

Leading the way by example, Dunn and other University administrators and campaign organizers have invested their own time and money to incentivize giving. New this year, faculty, staff and students who contribute early can win prizes, including a one-week parking pass, Miller tickets, a personal training package, gift certificates and more. Those who increase their giving by $50 over last year's contribution and return their pledge cards to the president's office by 5 p.m. Thursday will be eligible for weekly raffles to be held each Friday afternoon.

A grand-prize drawing will take place at this year's victory celebration, set for 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, in the President's Dining Room at the Bernhard Center. Contributors who boost their gift by $50 and get their pledge card in before the close of the campus campaign will have a chance to win a gym membership, box seats for the last home football game, a romantic weekend at the Oaklands and more.

Distribution of pledge cards to all faculty, staff and retirees is under way. Gifts can be made as one-time donations by cash, check or credit card, or as pledges, payable by payroll deduction, credit card or direct billing from United Way.

United Way T-shirts for sale

Support the United Way and WMU by ordering a "Live United" T-shirt. Each shirt has the WMU Bronco logo printed on the sleeve. Shirts can be purchased online or in person at the Student Recreation Center.

For more information on the Greater Kalamazoo United Way, visit kalamazoounitedway.org. For questions about making a pledge or donation, or to schedule a United Way meeting in your department, contact wmu-united-way@wmich.edu.

Adapted from: www.wmich.edu/wmu/news

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