Roanoke Valley United Way Donations Strong Despite Tough Economy

Outgoing United Way Board Chair Reverend Bill Lee.

Astounding a crowd of over 350 friends and supporters of the organization, United Way of Roanoke Valley’s 2009 Campaign Chair Dan Carson of Appalachian Power Company announced this week that the 85-year-old charity had raised  ,109,084 last year – more than was raised in 2008.  “We should all feel proud to live in a place with such generous people,” he declared.

He also reminded the many dedicated volunteers in the audience that their achievement in the face of the difficult times we are going through is admirable. However, he pointed out that there is still much to be done.

Nevertheless, in one of the worst economic climates in recent memory, the Roanoke Valley once again posted the highest per capita giving rate of any United Way campaign in the entire Commonwealth, a distinction it earns annually.  Each United Way is unique to its own region, and UWRV has adapted over the years to what the community has indicated are its top priorities:  to ensure that all children and youth succeed, that the elderly are treated with respect and dignity, that families are strong, and that everyone is healthy and self-sufficient.  Lofty goals, and not perfected yet, but with the incredible giving spirit of its nearly 25,000 donors behind it, United Way of Roanoke Valley has made progress even in the toughest years.

Crucial to the success of any year’s campaign are the many company campaigns that take place all over the Valley at different times of the year, though mostly in the fall.  Several companies were recognized for outstanding campaign performance this year, including Advance Auto Parts, which received the Spirit of Community Award, the highest corporate honor given by United Way of Roanoke Valley, as well as the Milestone Award for companies raising over $500,000 and the Most New “Impacters” Award (unrestricted gifts to the United Way Impact Fund).

The Cornerstone Award, for companies raising over $250,000, was awarded to Carilion Clinic and Norfolk Southern Corporation.  Outstanding First Time Employee Campaign went to the employees of the Shenandoah Club, and the Shining Star Award went to UWRV Partner Agency Greenvale School.  Greatest United Way Impact Fund Support went to Levy Home Entertainment and Roanoke Valley / Alleghany Regional Commission. Campaign CEO of the Year went to Jay Cummins of Kroger Mid-Atlantic. Employee Campaign Manager of the Year was awarded to Todd Burns of Appalachian Power Company.

Because the needs in the community continue to be critical, with unemployment at 7% and calls to 911 for emergency assistance doubling over the past year, United Way of Roanoke Valley will continue to present chances for everyone to get involved in the Roanoke Valley’s big-hearted response to their fellow citizens’ needs.  Several upcoming fundraisers were announced, including “A Golden Opportunity,” where people can contribute their broken or unused pieces of gold jewelry at drop-off points at area Kroger stores and allow UWRV to convert these items into much-needed cash for basic needs in the community.  In addition, on May 6, a major dinner and auction special event called “Bloom, All Things Grow With Love” will be held at the Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center, again focusing on raising funds to address basic needs in the Valley.

Wrapping up the celebration, President and CEO of UWRV Frank Rogan said, “Once again, the supporters of United Way of Roanoke Valley have demonstrated their steadfast commitment to improving lives and advancing the common good in our community.  I am very grateful to all who made sacrifices both great and small to help our friends and neighbors in the Roanoke Valley during very challenging times.  Our donors and volunteers have proven that they truly Live United.”

By Linda Webb
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