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Three happy preschoolers at Boston's Ellis Memorial, a program that fosters pre-literacy and is an affiliate of the United Way, smile for a photo in their classroom.
Did you know that if every BWHer gave just $1 per week to United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley, the hospital would collectively raise $832,000 to support organizations that serve our community?
The 2013 United Way Campaign kicks off Monday, Nov. 4, and this year's campaign theme is "United in Our Mission of Caring." Submitted by Dave McMahon, administrative director for Nursing Services, the slogan was selected from dozens of entries in a contest leading up to the campaign launch.
Stan Ashley, MD, chief medical officer; Allen Smith, MD, MS, president of the Brigham and Women's Physicians Organization; and Jackie Somerville, RN, PhD, senior vice president of Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer, are the co-chairs of this year's campaign. They have set a goal of raising $200,000 and achieving 16 percent participation among employees.
"The United Way campaign is one way you can make an important difference in our community," said Somerville. "In 2012, we raised nearly $170,000, and with everyone's generosity, we hope to surpass that amount this year."
The campaign coincides with open enrollment (see related story on page 2), running Nov. 4-26. An ice cream social will take place on Nov. 4, from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Pod B Cafeteria, to officially kick off the campaign.
"Donating to United Way supports a network of nonprofit agencies directly engaged with healthy childhood development, educational and growth opportunities for youth, sustainable employment and affordable housing," said Ashley.
United Way focuses on preparing children for success in school and life; helping youth stay on track for graduation; and empowering families to achieve financial stability. In the past year, United Way completed these important goals in the following ways:
36,000 toddlers were screened and assessed for learning and developmental delays, and 11,300 toddlers received early intervention services that would otherwise go unaddressed;
98 percent of the 28,375 youth who received academic support through United Way programs progressed to the next grade; and
18,300 individuals avoided homelessness and found permanent and safe housing.
The process for contributing to the United Way is easy and convenient. Starting Nov. 4, employees will receive direct, personalized emails with a link to their own giving page and can donate through payroll deduction, credit card or check. Printed pledge cards also will be available throughout the campaign for those who do not use email.
The campaign will provide donors with chances to win raffle items, including a bicycle, parking spots, sporting tickets and gift cards. The major prizes this year are a New England Patriots helmet autographed by quarterback Tom Brady and airfare for two anywhere in the continental U.S.
"Over the years, the BWH community has shown its commitment and spirit by increasing the amount raised time and time again," said Smith. "Your contribution will support meaningful, lasting change in our region that helps to create a brighter, stronger future for everyone."
Learn more at supportunitedway.org.