From the Desk of our 2008 Campaign Chair
Dan Welton
Letter from our 2008 Campaign Chair
As the 2008 United Way Campaign Chair and recently retired Plant Manager of the GM Grand Blanc Weld Tool Center, I am proud to have been a part of this important effort and organization. The dollars that have been pledged through our 2008 campaign will help thousands of people in our community.
Our 2008 campaign was a great example of our new credo: “LIVE UNITED”, and our new call to action: GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. When we answer that call and come together to forge solutions, we are indeed LIVING UNITED. The synergy of our response is what enables us to do even more to address the needs of our at-risk children, families and older adults. We do this because we know that when we reach out a hand to one person, we improve the quality of life for all of us in our community. Now the results:
In the Community Sector, which includes over 300 companies, organizations, union members and individuals, total pledges were $2,524,891.
We know charitable giving in 2008 was a challenge for many companies and individuals because of the economy. That makes this total even more meaningful for those people in our community who are struggling and truly in need.
In the Automotive Sector in 2008, the employees of GM, Delphi, and EDS, many of whom are UAW members, pledged $922,500; which exceeded their goal by 8.3%. In addition, General Motors corporate gift this year was $290,000; which brings the total pledged in the automotive sector to $1,212,500.
With the large number of retirements in 2008 and the on-going uncertainty in the auto industry, this is a wonderful example of the generosity of the people of our community.
This brings our pledged, grand total for the 2008 United Way Campaign to $3,737,391.
Your pledges are even more important this year, because the problems facing our families and neighbors are more complex and harder to solve. This is why “LIVING UNITED” is an opportunity for all of us, together, to inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow and, encompasses more than just your annual pledge to United Way. It is choosing to think of “WE” instead of ”ME” and to not only GIVE, but also to get involved for the common good by ADVOCATING and VOLUNTEERING.
Thank You,
Dan Welton
2008 Campaign Chair
United Way of Genesee County
