Campaign Climbs Over $2 Million Mark

United Way of Greater Battle Creek is more than 40 percent of the way to raising the dollars needed to help create long-lasting changes in the community. The 2009 Annual Community Solutions Campaign is in full swing, with many corporations and organizations in the middle of their fundraising drives. Donors have already committed more than two million dollars, which is more than 40 percent of the money needed to meet the ambitious goal of $5 million. 

“The out-pouring of the support from the community is overwhelming and very uplifting,” said Todd McDonald, campaign co-chair and group vice president & equity partner, CSM Group.  “We knew going into the campaign that this was going to be a difficult year for fundraising, but it is very rewarding to know that so many members of our community are rising to the occasion.”

Some of the accounts that have helped United Way reach the 40 percent mark are the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Kellogg Company, UPS, Meijer, Inc., City of Battle Creek and Calhoun County. 

McDonald added, “Participation will continue to be the key to our success.  Please, continue talking to your colleagues, friends and family about the good work of United Way and encourage them to give.  Every dollar truly does make a difference.”

“Just imagine, $1.00 a week helps ensure that a preschooler has access to a healthy snack everyday through an after-school program, and $5.00 a week puts shoes on the feet of 17 children,” McDonald continued. “Ten dollars a week helps ensure that 3,600 meals are distributed at a local pantry.  So now imagine if 10 new employees gave $5.00 a week that could result in 170 pair of shoes to children in low-income households. What if 100 new people gave $10 a week? That would mean 36,000 meals to families in need.”

And because of United Way of Greater Battle Creek’s 100% Guarantee, every individual donor who gives to United Way is assured that 100% of their gift supports local programs and services - not administrative costs.  UWGBC is able to offer this 100% guarantee because of generous corporate sponsors who cover UWGBC’s administrative and fundraising expenses.

United Way invites you to be part of the change.  Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow.

United Way’s Annual Community Campaign runs through November 15, 2009, so there is still plenty of time to give.  Anyone interested in learning about how to make a gift should call United Way of Greater Battle Creek at 269.962.9538 or visit the website at unitedwaybattlecreek.org.