Purdue's United Way campaign kicks off

Purdue United Way Campaign senior and junior chairs, team captains and volunteers as well as members of the United Way of Greater Lafayette team gather Thursday (Aug. 31) for the launch of Purdue's campaign. (Purdue University photo/Rebecca Wilcox) Download image

Purdue's 2017 United Way campaign began Thursday (Aug. 31) with the goal of raising $785,000 for local agencies in need. The campaign ends Nov. 15.

The Purdue United Way Campaign's theme this year is "United We Win." Willie Reed, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, is this year’s campaign chair, and Rhonda Phillips, dean of the Honors College, is the vice chair.

"I am truly excited to have the opportunity to act as chair of this year's Purdue United Way campaign. Years of selfless donation, whether in time or money, have made the Purdue community an essential part of the local United Way and its mission to further education, make families stronger and enrich lives,” Reed says.

Back this year is the ePledge online pledge system to streamline the campaign and make the experience more efficient, effective and user-friendly. As in years past, donors have the ability to donate an unrestricted gift to the United Way of Greater Lafayette or can choose a specific agency for their donations. Gifts can be made in various ways, including payroll deduction or a one-time donation. For credit card transactions, the United Way of Greater Lafayette contracts with CyberSource, a trusted name in e-commerce meeting industry security standards.

The campaign videos featured on the Purdue United Way website -- www.purdue.edu/unitedway -- explore the importance of supporting United Way through three firsthand perspectives. Employees and retirees can find additional campaign information and make their donations via the website.

A link to donate as well as more information can be found on the Purdue United Way website, including information on the partnership with Purdue Alumni for Month of Service during the month of September. Questions about the campaign can be directed to Megan Dale, Purdue United Way director, at dale12@purdue.edu or 765-494-9240.