Strong First Week for U of A United Way Campaign

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Interim Chancellor Ferritor, Razorback mascot and cheerleaders join Community Strong volunteers for campaign kick-off rally.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The U of A community response in the first week of the campus United Way campaign can only be described as “strong” – which is fitting for a campaign with the theme Community Strong – Child by Child.

As of Thursday, Oct. 7 – a week after the campaign kicked off – 145 faculty and staff members have contributed a total of $26,650 to support the children in Northwest Arkansas who live in poverty.

“This is an excellent response in our first week,” said Debbie McLoud, campaign coordinator. “We have people both donating online and with their United Way cards – and the folks donating online are also remembering to return their cards, which we appreciate. Having the cards helps us track participation, even for those who contribute in other ways. And, of course, everyone who turns in a card is eligible for the drawings we’ll hold for 20 cash cards worth $100 each.”

The campaign has already had three successful events – the Kick-off Party on Oct. 1, a yard sale and a bake sale, both organized by Facilities Management staff. Those last two events raised $1,600 for the United Way.

The money raised in the Community Strong – Child by Child campaign goes to 57 agencies and 67 programs supported by the United Way of Northwest Arkansas, programs that specifically help children.

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas is one of those agencies; “B” is one of those children, a young man who needed a male role model and found one in his Big Brother. For example, last year “B’s” grades started slipping. His Big Brother began to encourage “B” to take responsibility and pride in his grades, and since then “B” has been on the honor roll and is proud to have improved his grades. He describes himself as very sure he will finish high school, go to college, and finish college.