Week 4 of the United Way of Midland County community campaign has wrapped up, and support remains strong across the region. United Way announced pledges totaling $2,413,693, which represents 55 percent of the overall campaign goal of $4.4 million.
Several workplace campaigns have reached exciting milestones. DuPont concluded its campaign in September, surpassing its fundraising goal. Through employee giving, special events, and a generous corporate contribution, the company raised over $156,000 to support essential community programs. Corteva also completed its campaign this week, exceeding expectations with more than $60,000 raised through employee pledges and creative activities such as a swag sale and 50/50 raffle. Their impact grew even further through an additional $80,000 corporate gift.
The City of Midland is preparing to launch its campaign with engaging opportunities for employees, including Jean Day for United Way, a “Change for Change” competition, raffles, and other incentives. Consumers Energy continues its longstanding partnership with United Way, not only through employee giving and a corporate gift but also by championing efforts to better understand and support ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) neighbors. Consumers sponsors the ALICE Report, which provides critical insight into the struggles of working families across Michigan.
Workplace campaigns are also underway at Costco, Dow Credit Union, Members First Credit Union, Community Mental Health of Central Michigan and Bone and Bailey, with more to come as the campaign season continues.
Young Leaders United, a network of emerging leaders in their 20s and 30s, has been active throughout the fall. Members commit to both philanthropy and service, giving $250 or more annually and volunteering each year. The group recently hosted a learning series focused on how to better support young people in the community and will join Senior Services this holiday season to help prepare meals for local seniors. United Way expressed gratitude to the Young Leaders United Executive Committee, which includes Steven Rausch, Matt DeVries, Kristen Williamson, Katherine Soave, Charles Thomas, Dustin Neumeyer, Tara Welch, Stephen Lawler, Amanda Confer, Jordan Bruan, Nicole Rausch, Jessica Gilkins, Maria Rockafellow, Melissa Whitford, Taylor Trapani, Marybeth Penkala, Christine Mason and Dakota Colthrop. Their leadership and dedication continue to inspire a new generation of community champions.
This week’s campaign spotlight focuses on Reading at Grade Level, one of United Way’s key areas of investment. Currently, 52 percent of third-grade students in Midland are not reading at grade level, a milestone that research shows is critical to long-term success. Last year, nearly 900 students were connected with mentors and skill-building opportunities, while 143 received one-on-one tutoring to foster both skills and a love of reading.
The 2025 United Way of Midland County campaign will continue through the end of the year, inviting everyone in the community to play a role in creating meaningful change. To learn more about community needs, explore how dollars are invested, read impact stories, or find help, visit unitedwaymidland.org.
