The people in Midland County continue to respond to the two-week extension of the United Way campaign. They are reporting pledges totaling $4,551,793, representing 90% of the 2013 goal of $5,050,000.

“We saw a jump from 77% to 90%  this week,” shared Campaign Chair Greg Rogers. “What an incredible illustration of our can-do spirit. We have witnessed new donors stepping up, current donors giving a little more, and a number of creative grassroots efforts to ensure the needs are met.”

There are many success stories this week. The employees of Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union ran a strong campaign, increasing support to $27,241. Members First Credit Union increased their giving by 21%, donating $14,192. Saginaw Bay Underwriters reported 100% employee participation and the folks from Ieuter Insurance rallied, contributing $9,592.

Additional strong results are reported from Bierlein, who increased donations by 23% and Ingenuity IEQ, who increased giving by 11%. The generous folks from Three Rivers Corporation increased their campaign as well, pledging $37,656.

Gavin and Associates jumped by 18%, donating $8,640 and Midland Cogeneration Venture reporting contributions of $20,300, an increase of 6%.

“Many local organizations and individuals have answered the call,” shared Ann Fillmore, Executive Director of United Way of Midland County. “With most employee campaigns wrapping up, many are enlisting creative ways to ‘give a little more’ as we near the finish line.”

Numerous organizations are running “Take 5 to Give 5” campaigns, which encourages everyone to simply give $5 to support their community. Take 5 donations can be dropped off at United Way, Wolverine Bank, Midland Community Center, The Arc, MidMichigan Health, Cline, Close and Dyer, Cancer Services and Northside Deli. Garber Chevrolet is also donating $5 of every oil change and tire rotation to support United Way through the end of next week.

On Thursday evening, a group of Young Leaders hosted a “Going the Extra Mile” event at the Midland Brewing Company, encouraging all in attendance to give $5. The brewery generously donated $1 for every beer purchased and $1 per barbecue order from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Together, they raised over $1,200 for the community campaign.

“If everyone gave another $5, we could reach our goal,” shared Greg Rogers. “We can never lose sight of the people served through our community’s investment in United Way. They are our friends, family and people we pass in the grocery store. We all know folks who have been helped through our generous community. Together, we can ensure that those vital programs and services continue to be there when they need them.”

To make a donation or learn more, contact United Way at 631-3670 or online at www.liveunitedmidland.org.