United Way of Midland County is wrapping up week four of its seven-week campaign, with pledges totaling $2,683,367, representing 55% of the overall campaign goal of $4,900,000.

“Most of us don’t need convincing to give to United Way. We see the results every day,” shared Jim Nigro, 2015 Campaign Chair. “Some of us have been helped directly by United Way, but all of us, either directly or indirectly, benefit from United Way.”

The Live United message can be seen throughout the community—in posters, T-shirts, window designs and more.

“We are continuously awed by the many creative ways organizations are creating a buzz in the community,” shared Holly Miller, Vice President of United Way of Midland County. “From generous employee giving and competitive Change for Change campaigns to innovative events and activities–everyone is doing their part to help.”

Absolute Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is hosting the “Massage with a Message” campaign. They will visit any local business or organization to conduct 5-10 minutes chair massages for $1 per minute. Absolute is generously donating their time, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting that organization’s United Way campaign.

The County’s “Velvet Elvis” is moving around the community, raising money and making friends. Also keep an eye out for the infamous John Wayne cut-out. He visited Dr. Hale’s office, who generously donated $1,000 in order to move him. The “Duke” was recently spotted at Auto Perfection and Dan Dan the Mattress Man.  Chemical Bank, not wanting to be out of the cut-out action, has life-size versions of Bob Rathbun and Len Amat making their way through the bank and will be auctioned off at the end of their campaign.

Our local labor councils and unions are strong advocates in the community. In addition to getting the word out through a series of radio spots supporting United Way and lending their time as community volunteers, they have surpassed their goal, raising $5,186.

“Organized labor has always believed that service to the community is a cornerstone of labor’s foundation. Working with the Midland County United Way provides the central focus to serve the community in the most effective manner possible,” shared Richard McInerney.

“United Way is grateful for the tremendous support of our community volunteers,” stated Ann Fillmore, Executive Director. “Each year, over one thousand volunteers inspire our community by spreading the Live United message to their co-workers, neighbors, area businesses and civic organizations. We couldn’t achieve such success without their passion.”

Another group of committed volunteers’ work is just getting underway—the community impact volunteers. Over 120 volunteers will dedicate nearly 2,000 hours to ensure that the investment our community makes in United Way is distributed to have the greatest impact on the newly-established community-level goals.

Volunteers work with United Way’s twenty-four partner agencies to review programs and ensure lives are being impacted in Midland County. Throughout the fall, this committed group works together to recommend how the money raised will be invested.

Remember, the money raised here in Midland County stays here to provide a safety net or services for those in need while addressing the root causes of those struggles.