After last week’s announcement of a two-week extension of the campaign, the community rallied. United Way is pleased to report pledges totaling $4,745,229, an impressive 97% of the goal of raising $4,900,000.

“What an incredible community we live in,” shared Campaign Chair Jim Nigro. “United Way has seen a whirlwind of activity this past week and are humbled by the community’s generous response. We are asking for a final push to raise the remaining $150,000.”

Many local companies and organizations are reporting great results.

The Dow Chemical Company and Dow Corning Corporation are true community champions, lending their time and talents through volunteerism and generous support of United Way. Dow Chemical employees have pledged $1,224,841 and Dow Corning employees raised $585,036.

MidMichigan Health recently wrapped up their campaign, with an incredible 12% increase, reporting pledges of $205,779. They had great success with Jean Day, United Way T-shirt sales and their annual basket auction.

Chemical Bank kicked off with a fun and engaging dance routine and finished strong, raising $94,689. The Dow Chemical Employees Credit Union also featured a popular Jean Day for United Way, reporting pledges of $24,662.

Our local schools are dedicated to our community and the education of our youngest citizens. They also proudly support the work of United Way.

Midland Public Schools raised $34,561, which includes an incredible Change 4 Change campaign by Jefferson Middle School students, who collected over $1,500. Meridian Public Schools raised $1,782 and Bullock Creek Schools increased support, raising $1,090. Coleman also surpassed their goal, raising $1,255, which included an employee match from Superintendent Mary Pitchford.

The folks from Ayre Rhinehart are reporting great results, pledging $7,810, a 20% increase. And the employees from Community Mental Health understand the importance of a healthy community and also increased their support by over 30%, raising $5,466.

The United Way and their partner agencies impact the lives of those in need each and every day. In addition, they run an incredible campaign each year. United Way employees increased their giving by 20%, raising $5,388. West Midland Family Center hit a home run, raising $17,760, an incredible increase of 58%. Other agencies that surpassed their goal were Coleman Family Center (100%), Camp Neyati (62%) and Midland Area Homes (20%).

“The incredible generosity of our community will be invested to have the greatest impact,” shared Ann Fillmore. “Because of your generous support children are being equipped for success from birth through career; individuals and families are healthy and safe; and all individuals are supported to reach their full potential.”

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