United Way ends campaign strong
$5.1 million raised tops last year’s; UPS wins Spirit of Giving honor
Devon Haynie | The Journal Gazette
FORT WAYNE – United Way of Allen County received more money for its Community Campaign for the third straight year, officials announced Thursday.
The group raised $5.1 million during its 2011-12 Community Campaign, bringing in more money than the previous year, according to officials.
During a celebration breakfast at Grand Wayne Center, the group celebrated the campaign achievement and also honored the UPS/Teamsters Local 414 and 710 with the Spirit of Giving Award – United Way’s top campaign honor.
The United Way works with agency partners and other local organizations to improve access to education, income, basic needs and health. The group raises money for its Community Campaign dollars through workforce campaigns, corporate gifts, gifts from foundations and trusts, and individual pledges and donations.
United Way officials attributed the success of 2011-12 campaign to more than 130 campaign and leadership ambassadors who encouraged new gifts and workforce campaigns. A recent $100,000 gift from Lutheran Health Network to help support United Way’s 211 service also helped boost the final numbers, they said.
United Way officials said UPS deserved to be honored because the group had nearly doubled its campaign total since 2006 and has more than 72 percent of its employees participating in the campaign.
UPS takes part in Day of Caring and runs food, coat and school supply drives throughout the year, officials said.
“UPS is an outstanding campaign partner,” United Way CEO Todd Stephenson said in a written statement.
“The company and employees dedicate themselves to making the fundraising effort informative and fun. We can’t thank them enough for their hard work on behalf of our community.”
