West Virginia University’s 34th annual United Way campaign has surpassed the midway point, and more than 312 Mountaineers have pledged $179,264 – 60 percent of the $300,000 goal.

The campaign, which lasts eight weeks, will wrap up on Nov. 11. Dean of Students Corey Farris is serving as 2016 campaign chair.

“Our early support has been amazing,” said Farris. “Now is the time for us to keep up the momentum to ensure we cross over that $300,000 mark. WVU plays a vital role in helping change the story for thousands in our community.”

Employees are able to pledge electronically and via paper forms if necessary. Many units across campus are also sponsoring special events and activities to raise funds.

Employees who contribute are eligible for the United Way Give and Win Sweepstakes and for WVU specific incentives.

“Our campaign is built by caring individuals donating what they are able,” commented Brett White, United Way director of development. “Whether it is $1 or $1,000, every single gift is important and makes a difference.”

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 visit the website or complete their pledge form and return it to their unit team captain. For more information, log onto http://unitedway.wvu.edu/ or email unitedway@mail.wvu.edu.

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. “Every dollar raised here, stays here,” added White.

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

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

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