United Way’s Day of Action and Campaign Kickoff combine for free community-wide event
September 12, 2012
COLUMBIA, SC – September 12, 2012 – United Way’s Day of Action on September 20 will bring together over 600 volunteers from corporations and local businesses to donate their time and energy to nonprofits across the Midlands. After a day of service from repairing houses to hosting a fun day for children with special needs, volunteers and the community are invited to join United Way of the Midlands as they get set to officially kick off the 2012-2013 fundraising campaign.
More than 50 local companies and organizations have already run their workplace campaigns and, despite lingering economic challenges, have produced some impressive results. The campaigns that completed and submitted results before August 30 and achieved at least a 10% increase in overall giving or participation will be recognized as Pacesetters at the campaign kickoff on Sept. 20 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at EdVenture Children’s Museum. A 30-minute award ceremony will take place on the first floor at 5:40 p.m.
In honor of the celebration, EdVenture Children’s Museum will stay open late and everyone in the community is invited to bring their families to enjoy EdVenture and be a part of the celebration at no cost. Several of United Way’s partner agencies will be on site for an agency fair, and a $2 Snack Pack with hotdog, chips and lemonade will be available.
“It’s incredibly moving to see so much involvement from companies and individuals in our efforts to improve the Midlands,” said Mac Bennett, President and CEO, United Way of the Midlands. “Combining Day of Action with the Kickoff celebration was a natural choice that really allows us to celebrate everyone’s hard work and dedication to the community.”
“We were determined to come up with an event that would thank our volunteers and these companies for their efforts, and be fun and inspiring to the Midlands community,” said Mike Gray, VP of Resource Development, United Way of the Midlands. “We are aiming to raise at least 30% of the overall $10.4 million campaign goal from pacesetters and advanced campaigns. We are excited to announce how far we have come thanks to the generous support of so many people in our community.”
Over 600 volunteers have already signed up to participate in Day of Action, and opportunities are still available. To volunteer, contact Bridgett Molony at [email protected] or (803) 758-6987.
Several hundred guests, including company presidents and CEOs, company campaign directors, leadership givers and other invested community members, are expected to attend the kickoff celebration and everyone in the community is welcome at this free event. Registration is available online at www.uway.org/events.
If you would personally like to contribute, go to www.uway.org and click on GIVE. If your company would like to run a campaign, contact Mike Gray, United Way of the Midlands Vice President of Resource Development, at [email protected] or (803) 733-5422.
About United Way of the Midlands
United Way of the Midlands is the most organized, efficient and accountable system for investing in the community. With more than 85 certified partner agencies, United Way works to identify and respond to the critical human service needs of Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties. Funds are raised through workplace campaigns, grant writing and individual donations. For more information, please visit www.uway.org.
