The end is in sight—and it’s not too late to make a difference by investing in United Way. The organization is reporting pledges totaling $4,265,969 raised, or 91% of the overall community campaign goal of $4.7 million.
Dow completed its employee campaign on a high note, by exceeding their goal of $1.3 million. In an effort to create greater impact in our community, they committed to a higher campaign goal than last year. In addition to donations directly from employees, money was raised through special events and a generous donation from the Dow Company Foundation.
“Team Dow has certainly demonstrated what’s possible together during our employee campaign, and I couldn’t be prouder,” shared Dan Futter, Dow’s chief commercial officer. “The needs today are greater than ever, and our people stepped up again to serve their communities. Their resilience and generosity never fail to inspire me – especially as we navigate these extraordinary times together.”
The Dow Company Foundation is a longtime supporter of United Way. Each year, they award grant dollars to numerous eligible charitable organizations to support programs to help build community resiliency. With community needs at an all-time high, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the money donated through Dow’s efforts will help address many critical needs, including programs that focus on youth mentoring, mental health, overcoming loneliness, and supporting the ALICE population.
“Dow plays an instrumental role in helping to shape our local community – from investing their volunteer time, expertise and financial resources,” shared Holly Miller, President and CEO of United Way of Midland County . “We couldn’t be more grateful for our partnership. True change is created through the investment of employees and retirees, along with the generous support from their Company foundation.”
Many local retirees who supported United Way throughout their careers have continued to champion the cause by creating a legacy of care through their ongoing generosity. This year, they exceeded expectations, pledging nearly $389,117.
“Our amazing retirees inspire us with their genuine care and compassion for our community,” shared Kali Cochran, Director of Investor Relations at United Way of Midland County. “We are humbled by the continued generosity.”
Cochran continued to share that community retirees and individual donors also show their support each year and pledged a generous amount of $352,433 to support the 2021 campaign.
Workplace campaigns are drawing to a close, Three Rivers and Ace Hardware – strong advocates for United Way – also met or exceeded their goals, further highlighting their commitment to the community. Target and Meijer wrapped up their campaigns earlier in the season, adding momentum to the campaign as a whole.
As local nonprofits and agencies feel the strain under the increased needs, organizations and businesses are rallying to help support these efforts through United Way. The dollars raised are invested in programs that make a measurable impact in the areas of Youth Success, Health and Household Stability.
“Our partners are serving more and more people every day, many for the very first time,” shared Miller. “They need our support now more than ever. The way our community has responded when asked to go beyond showing how we are stronger together, to demonstrating what’s possible together has been incredible to witness.”
Be a part of closing the gaps and ensuring our neighbors’ needs are met. Drop off or mail in your contribution soon – United Way of Midland County, 115 Jerome Street, Midland, MI 48640.
