United Way of the Midlands announces $11 million campaign goal
September 16, 2016
United Way of the Midlands today announced an $11 million goal for its 2016-2017 campaign at the organization’s annual kickoff event, United Way Day at the State House.
Hundreds of community members attended as United Way announced that the organization has already raised $4.5 million towards the goal through Pacesetter companies that have already completed workplace giving campaigns.
United Way Day also spotlighted the importance of education, with more than 20 United Way Community Impact Partners on site providing volunteer opportunities for guests to become a champion for a child.
Main Street was renamed “United Way” for the day by the City of Columbia with a City Councilman Howard Duvall issuing a proclamation that Sept. 16 is officially United Way Day in the city.
Remarks were provided by South Carolina Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman.
“United Way Day is really a celebration of community, and we are excited to announce our 2016-2017 campaign goal while spotlighting our partners who are doing incredible work to improve the lives of children in the Midlands,” said United Way President and CEO Mac Bennett.
Last year, United Way raised $10.6 million for community programs focused on education, financial stability and health. The organization also received $1.1 million in flood relief and recovery funds and is currently leading the ongoing flood recovery efforts through the Midlands Flood Recovery Group.
With more than 40,000 community donors, funds raised last year by United Way served more than 26,000 people including: dental care for 3,646 adults and children; shelter for 1,915 homeless individuals; and quality in- and out-of-school programs for 2,258 elementary school students.
