St. Louisans will have shelter from domestic abuse, food on their tables and quality education for young children and the disabled because of the tremendous generosity of Washington University faculty, staff and retirees.
The WUSTL community contributed more than $691,000 to surpass this year’s goal of $675,000, says Ann Prenatt, vice chancellor for human resources. The university continues to accept pledges throughout the year online via HRMS Self Service, but automatic payroll deduction must be set up by Dec. 31. Pledge cards also are still available from Lisa Caress at (314) 935-6087 or caresslisa@wustl.edu.
“I am grateful to every member of the Washington University community who chose to contribute to this year’s United Way campaign,” Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton says. “Our university has greatly benefited from being a part of the St. Louis region, and it is rewarding to see so many here give back to St. Louis through the United Way.”
WUSTL’s campaign kicked off Sept. 6, helping the United Way of Greater St. Louis meet its 2012 goal of $72 million. The campaign exceeded the goal, topping out at $72,019,850 this year, a record annual total, United Way spokeswoman Carrie Zukoski says.
“Every year, the university community steps up its efforts to support United Way-funded agencies, and 2012 has been no exception,” says Ann Prenatt, vice chancellor for human resources and campaign chair.
“The United Way and the millions of people who are receiving assistance are grateful to the faculty, staff and retirees who opened their hearts and wallets over the past few months to help those in need,” 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 extend my thanks to all who have given, and to our campaign leaders and volunteers for their hard work and support of this campaign,” Prenatt says.
Last year’s WUSTL drive raised just more than $725,000, exceeding the goal of $650,000. The contributions helped the United Way of Greater St. Louis raise more than $71 million in 2011.
“Washington University and its employees have a long tradition of supporting our region through United Way of Greater St. Louis’ annual campaign,” says local United Way President and CEO Gary Dollar.
“We are grateful for the continued generosity of Washington University, which donated more than $691,000 to the 2012 campaign,” he says. “Through its generous support, United Way is able to build a stronger and healthier region and impact one in three local people.”
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 more than 170 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, meals and more.
For more information about the United Way, visit stl.unitedway.org.