United Way of Midland County has seen an incredible response to the Community Colors 5k community kick-off. Over 2,000 people came together for this colorful family event, learning about the needs in Midland County and ways they can help. The campaign is off to a strong start reporting pledges of $1,029,718. This represents an encouraging 20% of the overall campaign goal of $5,050,000.

“We are off to a great start,” shared 2013 United Way of Midland County Campaign Chair Greg Rogers. “The excitement and momentum taking place is contagious, with so many pulling together to make a difference.”

Many Midland County companies are just beginning to kick-off their campaigns but are already reporting strong progress.

The employees of The Dow Chemical Company Michigan Operations hosted their fifth annual Chili Cook-off. Over 3,000 employees in attendance were treated to a free bowl of chili, bake sale items and a chance to dunk their favorite coworker in the dunk tank. This year’s chili champion is “Team GLAD.” Local non-profits also joined the fun, competing for the best salsa in the region.

MidMichigan Health is also off to a good start. Their pacesetter campaign was led by their Information Technology Services group. They raffled off free IT services, with personal help with computer repair, networks and setting up Ipads. They also report a giant Pink Flamingo that is making its way through the campus.

“We are inspired by the creative ways people are bringing the Live United message to life,” shared Ann Fillmore, Executive Director of United Way of Midland County. “It is incredible to see the many volunteers and ambassadors out in the community sharing their passion for United Way and the community.”

The annual Feed the Need campaign is also in full swing and runs through the end of the month. On Saturday, September 28th, Target is hosting a Super Saturday event. Everyone is encouraged to add a few extra items to their weekly shopping trip and drop them off in the Target parking lot. The food collected will help re-stock the shelves of food pantries across the county.

United Way of Midland County works to advance the common good by focusing on the building blocks for a good life—Education, Health and Self-Sufficiency. They recruit the people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. We invite you to be a part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. For more information on how you can Live United, call 631-3670, or visit our website at www.liveunitedmidland.org.