Community support front and centre in United Way Campaign

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October 3, 2007

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/UnitedWay_logo.jpg” caption=”This year’s goal for the McMaster United Way Campaign is $180,000. “]If it's October, it must be time for the annual McMaster United Way Campaign. With an ambitious goal of $180,000, co-chairs Lisa Boniface and Louis Schmidt are optimistic about the target.

“The McMaster community has a track record of generously supporting the United Way,” said Boniface. “It's our one chance to support the entire Hamilton and Burlington communities with our giving.”

New to the campaign this year is the McMaster United Way blog, YouTube and Facebook campaign site (2007 McMaster United Way Campaign ).

Chris Erskine has been the technology catalyst on the United Way Committee.

“The United Way is such an important cause for all of us,” said Erskine. “We can use technology to make the campaign just that much more engaging for staff, faculty and students.”

All three sites will carry the latest news from the campaign during the month of October. Highlights will include the Inter-Residence Council (IRC) stair climb on Oct. 4, a special message from McMaster University president Peter Geoge and anecdotes from United Way committee members. The sites will also feature stories about agencies and clients who are helped by the United Way.

One of the first contributions to the McMaster Campaign — $437.50 — came from the 50-50 draw at the M.E.S.S. football game on Sept. 22. Watch the Daily News and the online sites for information about the United Way Silent Auction on Oct. 19.

McMaster faculty and staff will be able to choose payroll deduction for donations. Alternatively, people are welcome to make their donation by cheque or credit card. Pledge cards will be distributed this week to all employees.

“I hope that many in our community will support United Way through payroll deduction,” said Schmidt. “It's a very easy, convenient choice for many of us.” Payroll deduction will start Jan. 1, 2008 and run through the calendar year. The deduction will appear on the 2008 T4 forms.