University exceeds United Way goal

$571,064 raised as of Nov. 19

Thousands in the St. Louis community will benefit from the generosity of Washington University’s faculty, staff and retirees.

The University has raised $571,064 in its United Way of Greater St. Louis campaign, surpassing its stated goal of $555,000.

“Our success as an institution in raising money for the needs of St. Louis speaks to the truly generous spirit of the Washington University community,” said Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton. “I am grateful to all of those in our community who chose to make a contribution during this year’s United Way campaign.”

The University’s campaign kicked off in September and reached its targeted dollar amount in early November, just as the United Way of Greater St. Louis celebrated its record-breaking, $68.8 million drive.

“Every year, the University community steps up its efforts to support United Way-funded agencies, and 2007 has been no exception,” said Ann Prenatt, vice chancellor for human resources and campaign chair.

“The United Way and the University are grateful to faculty, staff and retirees who opened their hearts and wallets to help others these past few months,” she said.

“I also would like to thank the campaign leaders and volunteers for their hard work and support of this campaign,” Prenatt said.

Although the University has reached its goal, it will continue to accept pledges throughout the year. Faculty and staff members who would like a pledge card should contact Lisa Caress at 935-6087 or caresslisa@wustl.edu.

Last year’s WUSTL drive raised more than $550,000, exceeding the stated goal of $540,000, and helped the United Way of Greater St. Louis raise $66 million in 2006.

Ninety percent of contributions to the United Way of Greater St. Louis — one of the country’s highest assistance rates — go directly to more than 200 organizations that provide services for people living in 16 Missouri and Illinois counties.

Such services include job counseling and job training, affordable child care, disaster relief, violence prevention and more.

For more information on the United Way of Greater St. Louis, visit stl.unitedway.org.