West Virginia University kicks off its 2016 United Way campaign today with a goal of $300,000.

Dean of Students Corey Farris will serve as the chair of the 34th annual campaign. This year’s theme is “Change the Story.” The campaign, which lasts eight weeks, will wrap up on Nov. 11.

“At West Virginia University, we understand the importance of living united. Service is part of our identity,” Farris said. “I am honored to be leading our 2016 United Way campaign.”

For the second year, employees will be able to pledge electronically and via paper forms. You can also attend various fundraisers across campus throughout the campaign.

All contributions for WVU’s United Way campaign stay local, as the money is donated to 27 different organizations in Monongalia and Preston counties that assist people with healthcare, childcare, youth mentoring, senior programs, mental health programs, disaster response initiatives and healthy lifestyle initiatives, among others. These agencies, however, do not have the resources for large fundraising campaigns and rely on WVU’s United Way campaign each year for additional funding.

Employees interested in making a contribution should complete the pledge form online at http://unitedway.wvu.edu/ or return their pledge form to their unit team captain.

The entire campaign’s goal in Monongalia and Preston counties is more than $1.55 million. WVU would like to gather about one-fifth of the funds with the $300,000 goal.

“West Virginia University continues to take a leadership role in helping our community raise dollars for these critical programs,” said Brett White, United Way Director of Development and Communications. “These agencies and programs are changing lives every single day.”

WVU’s donations help provide:
• 52 programs at 27 health and human service agencies
• 15,493 nights of shelter for homeless individuals
• 1,298 dental procedures for uninsured individuals
• 1,500 young people with STEM-based learning opportunities
• 39,987 weekend food packs for children in our community

To help raise money for the campaign, the Student Government Association did their part by selling Gold Rush T-shirts for the annual “Gold Rush” football game, which was held on September 3rd against Missouri. T-shirts, which were $10 each, were available on campus and online. Over 4,250 shirts were sold, raising $18,000 for the campaign.

“The Gold Rush shirts have become a tradition at WVU and we are so proud that they support the important work being done by United Way,” said SGA President Julie Merow.

Employees who contribute $72 or more are eligible to win two tickets to a performing arts series performance. Those who donate $120 or more are eligible to win men’s basketball tickets. Those who donate $240 or more are eligible to win a single, yearlong membership to the WVU Recreation Center. First-time givers who give at least $72 can win a gift certificate to dinner for two.

Last year, WVU raised $301,000 for the campaign. Since 2007, the University has given the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties nearly $2.9 million. WVU has raised more than $250,000 each year for the campaign. WVU is the second largest contributor to the United Way of Monongalia and Preston counties with more than 950 contributors annually.

WVU’s United Way campaign began in 1982, White said, and has been conducted each year since.

“When our community is in need, we at WVU have always answered the call. Working together, we can continue that tradition,” Farris said. “I hope you will join me!”

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cn/09/19/16

CONTACT: Brett White, WVU United Way Campaign
304.322.2065, Brett.White@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.