CHARLEVOIX/EMMET COUNTIES -- United Way Board members marked the completion of its 2011/2012 campaign with a party a Chase Bank in Petoskey. The contributions of Chase employees and a corporate matching gift took the campaign over the goal earlier this week. 

More than $370,000 has been donated and/or pledged to Char-Em United Way during its 2010-2011 Campaign. This amount includes over $358,000 from local businesses, employees, and individuals, as well as a $20,000 challenge grant pledged by the Frey Foundation.  The total pledged is 2 percent over the Campaign goal. 

“We are thrilled with the success of the campaign and extremely grateful for the generosity of the community,” says Bob Carlile, United Way President.  “The success of the campaign will enable Char-Em United Way to support effective programs that meet health and human service needs in our community. With the effects of the recession continuing to hit northern Michigan families, the demands for services from our local non-profit agencies is still very high.  United Way is pleased that we will be able make a difference in the lives of so many this year.” 

Martha Lancaster, Executive Director adds, “We are very gratified with the results of this campaign. This is the first time we have met our goal in three years and been able to claim the full Frey Foundation challenge grant.  The timing of Chase Bank’s campaign took us over our goal, but we want to stress that all our donors are equally important to our success.”  

Chase is one of over 90 local employers which conduct workforce campaigns. Many additional contributions to United Way come from individuals and small businesses. 

Char-Em United Way’s 35-member volunteer Citizen Review Panels have just completed review of requests for community investment allocations for the coming year. The Board will make final funding decisions on May 11. Even with the success of the campaign, there is a shortfall between the funds requested and the available funds to support these programs.  United Way is continuing to accept new pledges and donations toward the 2010/2011 campaign through May 11.   

To make a donation, or for more information, contact United Way at 231-487-1006 or info@charemunitedway.orgor visit the website www.charemunitedway.org