Nov 21 – United Way Exceeds 2011 Campaign Goal, Raising Record $8,504,597

Written by Lou Phelps Monday, 21 November 2011 01:06

SBJ Staff Report

Nov 21, 2011 - United Way of the Coastal Empire announced this weekend that they exceeded their campaign goal by raising an impressive $8,504,597. Campaign Chair Michael C. Traynor, publisher of the Savannah Morning News, and members of the Campaign Cabinet proudly reported campaign results to a sold out crowd of over 450 people at the Victory Celebration Friday at the Savannah Marriott Riverfront.

Cabinet members said that ‘despite the challenges facing the economy, Coastal Empire businesses and individuals, led by many of our area’s largest corporate citizens, found a way to dig deep to support the critical mission of United Way of the Coastal Empire.”

The funds raised by United Way support over 120 programs and services in Chatham, Effingham, Bryan and Liberty counties - from scouting and child development to programs for the unemployed or the under-educated.

“One of the wonderful realities of a United Way campaign is that it is a massive community effort, with many hands pulling toward a singular goal. We offer our congratulations and gratitude especially to those who donated time and energy — in addition to their funds — to make our campaign a success,” Traynor said. “It was a job well done.”

United Way of the Coastal Empire organizes its campaign under units for industry groups. Unit one, Corporate division, led all others with a campaign total of more than $4,300,000. Thanks to Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and its employees for giving so generously to the community, raising $2,350,000.

During Friday afternoon’s celebration, United Way of the Coastal Empire also presented one lucky winner with a Savannah River Staycation package, which includes a one night stay at Westin Savannah Harbor, Sunday brunch at the Westin Aqua Star and trolley tour. Several generous sponsors and anonymous donors donated gifts to be given away as part of the community campaign.

The United Way fundraising campaign began on September 8 this fall.

The organization thanked Master of Ceremonies Jessica Kiss of WJCL-ABC and Jesse Blanco of WTGS-FOX who emceed the Friday event.

2011 Campaign Results by Divisions:

§ Unit 1: Corporate -- $4,324,748

§ Unit 2: Services/Transportation -- $524,958

§ Unit 3: Manufacturing/Wholesale/Retail -- $513,492

§ Unit 4: Public Service -- $551,872

§ Unit 5: Business Development Residential -- $716,995

§ Unit 6: Effingham County -- $312,223

§ Unit 7: Professionals -- $327,171

§ Unit 8: Education -- $245,053

§ Unit 9: Bryan County -- $63,513