The United Way of Midland County community campaign saw progress during week five of the campaign. Pledges totaling $2,980,499 have been reported, representing 61% of the overall goal of $4,900,000.

By investing in United Way, you are lighting the way for thousands of our friends and neighbors in need. From a woman and her children escaping abuse, to the family standing in line at the local food pantry, they are counting on our help.

“The work of United Way and our 27 partner agencies is vital to Midland County. We continue to focus on eliminating barriers to ensure all families and individuals reach their full potential,” shared Executive Director Ann Fillmore. “We provide a safety net for those in need while striving to impact root causes.”

Many local businesses are supporting United Way by encouraging their customers to buy a paper Live United T-shirt for $1.00. These visible signs of support can be purchased at Pizza Sam’s, Amazing Deli and Ace Hardware.

The employees of McKay Press are generous supporters and also lend their expertise donating the printing of campaign materials and other projects throughout the year. They are running a very engaging campaign, hosting a “Dogs for a Cause” luncheon, Chili Cook-off, Bake Sale and a Root Beer Float Friday.

The creative folks at Bolger + Battle kicked off with a breakfast that included menu selections prepared by their management team. They have also instituted a curse jar, leaving early one day if they participate and have replaced their popular snack box with employee-made baked goods to raise funds.

Comerica Bank supports United Way’s throughout the state and have raised over $2 million. They are celebrating 100% participation this year—with every employee pledging support. Locally, they hosted an auction and raised over $4,500 in just three days.

The employees of Styron are very engaged all year, serving as dedicated community volunteers, sponsors and advocates for our community. They are running a Change for Change campaign with a U of M vs. MSU theme that ends with a tailgate celebration donning the winning team’s colors.

Aptar is excited to run their first employee campaign and are off to a fantastic start. They are featuring a vacation day raffle, Spirit Days and Jean Days, along with a penny war that wraps up with a pie in the face for the losing team. They also featured several agency speakers during employee meetings.

“As the chair, I have had the opportunity to see first-hand the incredible impact taking place through United Way and their family of 27 partner agencies, shared Cornell Boggs, 2014 Campaign Chair. “I have seen both the passion of the people who serve as well as the impact taking place for so many in our community.”