In September, United Way of Midland County’s Board of Directors set a bold campaign goal of $4,800,000. To date, the community has rallied together to raise $4,736,925 representing 99% of the overall goal. In order to close the $63,074 gap, United Way of Midland County will extend the 2017 Community Campaign to meet the local needs of Midland County residents.

“We are humbled by the community’s incredible generosity since mid-September,” shared Ann Fillmore, Executive Director of United Way of Midland County. “However, falling short of our $4.8 million goal will impact the most vulnerable in our community.”

Societal needs are as complex and diverse as their solutions, no other single organization provides such a broad-based, comprehensive way in which to invest both time and resources. United Way brings the people, organizations and resources together to create change. United Way impacts the most pressing community issues through partnerships and program investments in Education, Health and Self-Sufficiency.

Midland County is a very blessed community. However, many local residents are struggling and need a hand UP. For example:
 1 in 3 local families are struggling to make ends meet.
 54% of 3-4 year old kids are not currently enrolled in preschool.
 272 local families are homeless or have unstable housing.
 53% of residents with a disability are unemployed.
 17% of area kids are living in poverty.

These are just a few of countless real-life scenarios that our neighbors face every day. Big challenges such as these are real, and require more than one nonprofit or one
program to solve. We know that the key to social change is how we work together. This is why United Way’s holistic approach is so important and so effective.

We are on-the-ground, working with nonprofits, education, business, and government to lead collective action that drives results. We can only continue to have such impact
through your financial investment in our community.

Individuals and families who find themselves in need next year, will seek assistance through United Way invested programs. These individuals who walk through the door of
a partner agency may be at their darkest, most desperate time in their life. In addition to the support they need, the life-saving ingredient that they will find within those doors is
hope. Hope is what brightens even the darkest hours. Your donation provides that hope for a better tomorrow, opportunities for something better, and peace of mind that they
can elevate above their current circumstance.

“United Way is the collaborator that brings businesses and communities together to create positive impact,” explained 2017 Campaign Chair Diane Postler-Slattery. “We hope that with your support, we can exceed our campaign goal and create lasting change in Midland County.”

What can you do to help? Every donation counts, no matter the size.
 Consider a first-time donation. Every donation makes an impact and every
dollar makes a difference.
 Renew your support. Our generous neighbors have gotten us this far. If you’ve
supported United Way in the past, there is still time to make an impact in our
2017 campaign.
 Turn in your results! Some organizations are still actively campaigning. Drop off
your results to United Way at 220 W. Main Street, Suite 100.
 Spread the Word. Encourage your neighbors and your friends to lend their
support.

There’s still time to support United Way’s 2017 campaign. Financial gifts can be dropped off or mailed to: United Way of Midland County, 220 W. Main Street, Suite 100, Midland, MI 48640. To make a donation by credit card or direct bill, call United Way at 989-631-3670. You can also donate online at unitedwaymidland.org.