On Monday, September 10, United Way of Midland County kicks off the 2018 Campaign with the goal of raising $4,700.000. Recognizing that changing lives is bigger than a single agency or individual program, United Way brings businesses and resources together to create true community impact.
“While our community remains in a state of transition, demand for the crucial services that our partner agencies provide continues to escalate for those who are struggling in our community,” stated Ann Fillmore, Executive Director at United Way of Midland County. “This year’s campaign goal will help us continue to meet the needs of those who are struggling the most.”
Leading this year’s efforts as Campaign Chair is Bridgette Gransden, Midland County Administrator/Controller. In addition to serving as the 2018 Campaign Chair, Bridgette is currently serving on the MidMichigan Medical Center Midland Board of Directors, Midland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Community Success Panel, the Midland Area Community Foundation’s Impact Grant and Scholarship Selection Committees, and the Michigan Municipal Executives Board of Directors.
“I think of United Way as the community safety net. The programs funded by United Way are both proactive and reactive,” stated Gransden. “United Way improves people’s lives so they don’t fall, but is also ready to catch them if they do.”
“We’re thrilled to have Bridgette on board as our Campaign Chair this year,” added Ann Fillmore. “She’s a strong community advocate, a former Torch Bearer award recipient, and her eagerness to lead this campaign speaks to her passion for our community.”
New for 2018, United Way has started to roll out the Framework for Community Success. This updated framework carries on the years of work that went into creating the community level-goals of Education, Health and Self-Sufficiency, and aligns with upcoming United Way Worldwide initiatives. The pillars are known as Childhood & Youth Success, Optimal Health and Household Stability.
“The money raised here stays here. We raise money locally, make investment decisions locally and measure community impact locally,” explained Fillmore.
Workplace campaigns are underway throughout the community, and those who would like to donate online can do so at eportal.unitedwaymidland.org/give.
“Midland is filled with generosity, genius and courage, and when those three hold hands, anything is possible. We appreciate the dedication the community has shown not just to United Way and our annual campaign but the entire community, its families and those who need a hand up,” added Gransden.
The 2018 United Way campaign will continue until October 31. For more information about how you can help create a thriving community, visit unitedwaymidland.org.
