By Rick Garcia
On September 11th the United Way annual campaign kickoff event was held at ALIVE! Local businesses, nonprofit agencies and civic and elected officials were on hand to observe 9/11 and to formerly launch the campaign drive.
9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance was first established to inspire a tradition of engaging in charitable service on 9/11 as an annual and forward-looking tribute to the 9/11 victims, survivors, and those who rose up in service in response to the attacks.
Charlotte Mayor Dee Smith gave a moving invocation and reflection honoring the men and women serving in the military, fire and police who sacrificed their lives for freedom. Special guest speaker, State Representative Deb Shaughnessy, gave a glowing statement of the “Spirit of Community” that Eaton County residents instill by demonstrating volunteerism and community service. She also presented a Resolution from the State House and Senate for Eaton County United Way.
In August, the Eaton County Board Commissioners presented a resolution proclaiming September 11, 2012 as “National Day of Remembrance & Eaton County United Way Kickoff” in Eaton County, urging all citizens to support activities and efforts in their communities through Eaton County United Way. Eaton County United Way, along with many of their nonprofit agency partners, civic and veteran organizations are engaged with many events and projects that will bring together citizens to perform an act of service on behalf of this national holiday.
The campaign goal is for every working resident in Eaton County to consider giving fifty-cents a weekday which could potentially amount to $3.9 million. It’s a daunting goal but the reality of local human and health needs from our local residents who utilize a service from a nonprofit agency partially funded by United Way, goes a long way.
Last year Eaton County United Way had 604 contributors giving $156,000. Census 2010 estimates about 30,000 county residents employed. Imagine the possibilities.
This year’s theme is “Give… Your Attention – Your Passion – Your Knowledge – Your Heart”. The event also previewed this year’s first ever local video spot which can be viewed on YouTube (Eaton County United Way) or on our website www.ecuw.org.
For more information and or to participate in the campaign call the Eaton County United Way office (517) 543-5402.
This was printed in the September 23, 2012 – October 6, 2012 Edition
