The University of New Mexico’s 2009 United Way theme, “Live United” was based on the belief that humans are all connected and interdependent. Extending a hand to one disadvantaged person in the community can influence the conditions of many others. To that end, UNM once again set a lofty goal of $1 million and surpassed it by raising $1,010,604. Additionally, this year, more hands were extended as UNM added 243 new donors.
“Thank you to all the individuals who contributed to make life better in central New Mexico,” said President Schmidly. “Even in difficult times, it is heartening to see the triumph of the human spirit and how we take care of each other as a community.”
More than 2,000 donors helped UNM reach and surpass its goal. Included among that number were 28 members of United Way’s Alexis de Tocqueville Society contributing at $10,000 or more per household, and 167 members of Women in Philanthropy contributing at $1,000 more per household.
Despite a tough economy, the UNM community really stepped up. Main campus employees contributed more than $664,045; UNMH more than $300,000; and Valencia Campus, Medical Group, Foundation and retirees brought in much of the rest.
Honorable mention goes to UNM students. Paw print cutouts were sold again this year at coffee shops and eateries in the Student Union building where kids bought 1,600 paws at $1 apiece for the cause.
Jenny Shroba, student liaison for United Way said, “It was uplifting to see the $1 paws painted across the walls of the SUB and coffee shops each day while going to class. It truly shows that UNM students not only have Lobo Pride, but a sense of compassion for the New Mexico community as well.”
The University’s campaign is one of the top five in Central New Mexico and demonstrates UNM’s support for friends, family, community and causes of support around the world. One of the many benefits of your donation exists right here at UNM. Donors can designate their gift to any number of UNM departments or programs. United Way opens the door to many educational possibilities through donor support of scholarships and undergraduate education.
Donors also were able to choose to direct their contribution to the United Way Community Fund or any 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization of choice which helps support thousands of organizations throughout the country working with at-risk children, the elderly, victims of family violence and other organizations in need.
“It was an exciting opportunity to coordinate this campaign with such a large group of caring UNM people who make such a wide reaching impact in our community,” said Connie Beimer, Special Assistant Strategic Initiatives: Office of VP Research & Economic Development. “The fact that we were able to increase the number of people who give each year, as well as the number of dollars contributed, is a phenomenal achievement by UNM faculty, staff and students. It truly is amazing in these tough economic times to see the generosity of people to help those in need.”
Media Contact: Mara Kerkez, (505) 277-1989; e-mail: marakez6@unm.edu
Posted by scarr at February 4, 2010 01:21 PM