Purdue United Way debuts ePledge system during campaign kickoff

Purdue's 2016 United Way campaign kicks off Sept. 1 and runs through Nov. 16 with a goal of raising $760,000 for human service agencies in Tippecanoe and many surrounding counties.

As a new aspect of this year's campaign, ePledge is an online pledge system that fits seamlessly into the existing United Way campaign. Donors using ePledge have a more secure and easier way to show their support for the campaign. The system also provides improved campaign management, volunteer management and reporting. Moving to an online system eliminates the use of paper pledge cards.

"We are really excited to introduce ePledge to our campaign donors and volunteers," says Becky Hershey, Purdue United Way director. "There are so many benefits to ePledge. The user-friendly tool streamlines the donation process and provides an overall pleasant donor experience. The ePledge system allows for more effective and efficient campaign management and reporting for volunteers. With the elimination of paper pledge cards, the system also will reduce costs and support sustainability."

Employees who cannot use the ePledge system should contact Hershey for assistance at unitedway@purdue.edu or 49-49240.

Donors will have multiple donation options: 

* Payroll deduction.

* Credit card – pre-authorized payment.

* Check.

* Bill me.

* Securities.

* Sorry, I don't wish to give at this time.

The United Way of Greater Lafayette contracts with CyberSource, a trusted name in e-commerce, to process credit card transactions via ePledge. All information transferred to and from ePledge, including payroll deduction information, is transmitted using encryption technology. Card information is never stored or handled by the United Way.

Purdue employees will receive an email solicitation instead of the paper pledge packets. The email will be sent out Sept. 1.

In addition to the annual fundraising goal, Purdue seeks 100 percent participation in the campaign. Employees are asked to sign in and use the pledge process to indicate they had the opportunity to participate even if they are unable to donate.

Purdue United Way has created a set of campaign resources including a frequently asked questions document, a quick reference card and more to provide additional details on the ePledge giving system. Any questions about ePledge or the campaign can be directed to Hershey at unitedway@purdue.edu or 49-49240.