United Way celebrates 75th anniversary
MEDIA RELEASE
UNITED WAY OF SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN
3.15.18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ryan Cheevers / 269.932.3546
United Way celebrates 75th anniversary
Walking into the Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College on Thursday night felt like traveling back in time. That’s because United Way of Southwest Michigan was celebrating their 75th anniversary serving Berrien and Cass counties. And they definitely put on show.
The night was highlighted by a balloon drop, and the reveal of their 75-year attainment of $105,899,548. In its first year, back in 1942, United Way (then known as The Community Chest) raised $122,496. In 2017, the non-profit that serves Berrien and Cass had another historic campaign season, raising $4,261,541.
The numbers are certainly significant, but the night belonged to the many organizations and individuals who were recognized for the work they achieved in 2017.
The LIVE UNITED Award was presented to Whirlpool Corporation. This award was created in 2005 to recognize organizations or individuals who truly embody the mission, vision, and goals of United Way, and who live out the idiom of Give, Advocate, and Volunteer. Whirlpool has been a long-time partner of United Way, embracing a large number of best practices over the years, from employee engagement to senior leader involvement. Whirlpool employees participate in United Way Days of Action, and numerous other volunteer events throughout the year. During 2017, a total of 426 employees at this company volunteered for United Way in a variety of capacities. They gave 6,139 hours of service, which is valued at nearly $145,000. In 2017, Whirlpool also received a Governor’s Service Award from Gov. Rick Snyder. The list of other Award Winners and
About United Way
United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. They do this by LIVING UNITED. By forging unlikely partnerships. By finding new solutions to old problems. And by mobilizing the best resources. To join the fight, visit www.uwsm.org.
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