September 2, 2009
Purdue gears up for launch of 2009 United Way Campaign on Sept. 15
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Purdue will kick off its 2009 United Way campaign on Sept. 15 with plans to build on the success of previous campaigns and to raise at least $730,000 for area service agencies.
Campaign chair Dennis Depew, dean of the College of Technology, says Purdue's theme this year, "United starts with U," is appropriate for the University and the community.
"Purdue faculty and staff have been very generous over the years and have continually helped improve the lives of many people in our community," he says. "Whether as volunteers in the agencies or as a giver to the annual campaign, Purdue's contribution is very important to the community United Way campaign."
The Purdue United Way goal of $730,000 is a large percentage of the community goal, which has yet to be announced.
Anne Washburn, Purdue United Way Campaign director, says, "It's an exciting time for United Way of Greater Lafayette and our community. Together we are changing lives and making Tippecanoe County healthier, safer and more prosperous — and that's good for everyone!"
Purdue's Vanguard givers (those who give at least $1,000) and retirees received their pledge cards in early August as part of the Pacesetter campaign. Those pledge cards should be returned by Sept. 7.
Pledge packets for faculty and staff will go out via team captains during the week after the Sept. 15 kickoff. Pledge cards should be returned to team captains. Contributions go to Lafayette-West Lafayette service agencies through United Way of Greater Lafayette. Faculty and staff can designate their gifts for other area United Ways if they so choose.
Lilly Endowment to match new, increased giving
New gifts and increased gifts to United Way will be matched this year by Lilly Endowment.
For example, if you gave $100 last year and pledge $150 this year, Lilly will pitch in the amount of the increase, which is $50.
Any new gift will be matched fully by Lilly.
Students to hold online auction of various items
Purdue's United Way student chairs are sponsoring an online auction to benefit the campaign. The auction opens Sept. 15. Donations of items to be auctioned still are being accepted.
More information about the auction and about how to donate is at www.purdue.edu/unitedway.
United Way facts
* Purdue United Way Campaign goal: $730,000.
* Purdue United Way Campaign kickoff: Sept. 15.
* Pledge card distribution: Week following Sept. 15.
* Purdue United Way chair: Dennis Depew, dean, College of Technology.
* Loaned campaign representatives: Sheron Griggs, assistant to the head of the Department of Aviation Technology, or Anne Washburn, Purdue United Way Campaign director. To schedule an LCR presentation, call United Way, at 742-9077, or go to www.uwlafayette.org for a form.
* Information: Purdue United Way office, 49-49240 or www.purdue.edu/unitedway.