Thousands in the St. Louis community will benefit from the generosity of Washington University’s faculty, staff and retirees.
The university has raised more than $651,825 in its United Way of Greater St. Louis campaign, surpassing its stated goal of $615,000.
“Thank you to all those in the Washington University family who chose to support the United Way this year,” says Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton.
“Washington University derives great benefit from being in St. Louis. This is one significant way in which we are able to contribute back to our community and to support those who need assistance from United Way-supported agencies.”
WUSTL’s campaign kicked off Sept. 8 and reached its targeted dollar amount in late October, helping the United Way of Greater St. Louis exceed its 2010 goal of raising $68 million. The United Way had raised approximately $68.1 million as of Nov. 10, 2010.
“Every year, the university community steps up its efforts to support United Way-funded agencies, and 2010 has been no exception,” says 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,” Prenatt says.
“Through our campaign, during a continuing difficult economic time for so many, we will be making a significant contribution to the financial support of agencies that provide vital services and programs.
“I also would like to thank our campaign leaders and volunteers for their hard work and support of this campaign,” Prenatt says.
Although WUSTL has reached its goal, it will continue to accept pledges throughout the year. Employees are encouraged to pledge online through HRMS Self Service. Pledge cards also are available. To request a pledge card, contact Lisa Caress at (314) 935-6087 or caresslisa@wustl.edu.
Last year’s WUSTL drive raised $631,754, exceeding the stated goal of $600,000, and helped the United Way of Greater St. Louis raise more than $67 million in 2009.
More than 90 percent of contributions to the United Way of Greater St. Louis — one of the country’s highest assistance rates — go directly to nearly 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 about the United Way, visit stl.unitedway.org.