march 4, 2011
News Release
Date: Friday March 4, 2011
From: Twin County United Way
Subject: 2011 Campaign Results
Release: For Immediate Release
Twin County United Way has surpassed its campaign goal as the organization raised more than $702,000 for its 2011 Campaign, Executive Director Ron Ramos has announced.
In the midst of a challenging economy & talks of budget cuts all over the place, TCUW raised almost $12,000 more than last year. The money from this campaign that has been designated to the “Community Impact Fund” will be invested into local programs making progress in the areas of Education, Income, and Health.
“We are honored and proud,” Ramos says. “To see an increase in giving during one of the most challenging economies speaks loudly that our Lewis Clark Valley is a community that will pull together and be a genuine example of neighbor helping neighbor. That’s what it means to LIVE UNITED.”
The campaign started in September and concluded on March 1, although the organization is still accepting contributions.
A few years back, TCUW was successful in further leveraging each donated dollar by partnering with local businesses, known as their Corporate Champions. “Thanks to our Corporate Champions, no administrative costs are taken from individual donations,” Ramos says. “Our administrative costs are underwritten by our Corporate Champions through their corporate gift.” Ramos says he feels this is one of the keys to encouraging an increase in giving as it is a clear testimony of the trust in TCUW. This partnership also allows TCUW’s community impact to be larger than ever.
“We are so thankful to all of those who have opened their doors and hearts to what TCUW is doing in our community,” Ramos says. “Our sleeves are rolled up. We’re investing every gift back into the community through programs with proven outcomes to help people where they need it the most. This would not be possible without passionate individuals and businesses that give and volunteer to make our community a great place to live, work, and play. Thank you.”
Ramos says Clearwater Paper and St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center were two businesses that had a jump in employee giving as Clearwater Paper reported an $18,000 increase and St. Joe’s reported a $13,000 increase from 2010.
Ramos feels that another key to the increase in giving has been the impact that the community sees from TCUW related project. TCUW is currently focused on leading the Children’s Project, a collaborative effort focused on helping children in Lewiston & Clarkston be prepared for kindergarten. Collaborating organizations include Community Action Partnership, Boys & Girls Clubs, school districts, libraries, Head Start, and the WA-ID Volunteer Center.
As many people may only hear or think about about TCUW in the fall, TCUW works throughout the year to determine the biggest needs in the Valley and implement solutions to those issues. This involves a lot of teamwork from businesses, nonprofit organizations, government entities, and individuals.
To learn more about TCUW, make a contribution, or to volunteer time, contact Ramos at the TCUW office at (208) 743-6594 or visit www.tcuw.org
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