Four weeks into the 2019 campaign, United Way of Midland County is reporting pledges of $2,813,236. These pledges represent 62% of the overall $4.5 million goal. These results are trending positively as the campaign rounds its halfway point, but United Way is asking the community to help keep the momentum going.
“We’re really encouraged by our progress and the community’s generosity through the first half of the campaign,” stated 2019 Campaign Chair Jon Lynch. “However, we’re entering a crucial stretch where progress can hit a lull, so we need our colleagues, friends and neighbors to continue to step up and help out.”
Have you ever wondered how your donation makes an impact in the community? United Way is excited to announce the launch of the new online Impact Calculator, where you can get a snapshot of the incredible ways your donation creates change for those served through funded programs. To explore ways your gift can make a difference, visit eportal.unitedwaymidland.org/impact.
While some organizations are wrapping up their fundraising efforts, others are just getting started. Members First Credit Union kicked off their annual campaign this week with a live webcast to all employees locally and statewide. They’re offering some fun incentives like Amazon gift cards and an overnight stay.
A handful of local organizations are excited to run first-time or refreshed campaigns this year. The Savant Group is running their first United Way campaign. They kicked off this week with an employee picnic. In addition to some amazing food and conversation, they welcomed United Way’s administrative assistant Melina Bucci to share the many ways her goals are supported by organizations like The Arc, United Way and many others.
“Don’t ask me what it feels like not to be included,” shared Melina. “I’ve never known.”
Tri-Star Bank brought their staff together to talk about issues in the community and explore ways they can have an impact, including advocating for others and lending their time as volunteers.
“This campaign is not just about United Way. It’s about 62+ programs at 26 nonprofit partners and thousands of people who rely on their services,” said Holly Miller, Executive Director of United Way of Midland County. “This year’s campaign is truly about our community and how we show up for one another.”
In addition to all of the incredible programs that your donation goes to support, there are valuable resources available to help meet direct needs.
FamilyWize is a free prescription drug discount program for anyone needing to save some money on prescriptions—even for those with insurance. The cards are free, with no enrollment or paperwork needed, and they can be downloaded from familywize.org. To date, Midland County residents have saved over $1.2 million in prescription drug costs through FamilyWize.
When individuals and families are in crisis, reaching the right person or service is vital. 2-1-1 of Northeast Michigan is a 24/7 information and referral service that connects people in need with people who can help. Dialing 2-1-1 is the quickest and easiest way to connect with Health and Human Service organizations in our community, region and state.
The 2019 United Way campaign will continue until November 1st and everyone is invited to make a difference. For more information about how you can help improve lives in our community, visit unitedwaymidland.org.