Octber 26, 2006

AREA COMPANIES COME TOGETHER TO BUILD A STRONGER COUNTY
United Way Provides Supporters with a Campaign Report

Lancaster, PA (October 26, 2006) – Since Day of Caring kicked off its annual campaign on September 9, United Way representatives have been invited to speak at workplaces throughout Lancaster County. Today, organization officials provided area business leaders with the results from those meetings during its Campaign Report.

“We are grateful for the business community’s continued generosity,” said Bill Reuter, 2006 Campaign Chair. “You open your doors to us during the workday and allow us the opportunity to speak with your employees about the impact United Way is making in Lancaster County.”

“And so far this campaign,” Reuter continued, “our staff and loaned representatives have presented the United Way story at 677 information sessions throughout the county.” During the program, held at Lititz Mutual Insurance Company, United Way officials announced that $4,714,659 has been raised by the community over the past seven weeks, a 4.3% increase over completed campaigns to date last year. Additionally, corporate giving has increased 2.3%, employee giving is up 5.1% and leadership giving – households which contribute $1,000 or more – is up 16.8%.

“While the number of activities and funds raised so far is encouraging,” Reuter said, “there are two months of hard work ahead as we continue to build a stronger Lancaster County.”

During the program, nine area businesses and organizations reported on how their efforts are helping to build a stronger Lancaster County. Officials on hand represented Lititz Mutual Insurance Company, Certified Carpet, Clean Burn, Eastern Alliance Insurance Group, Johnson & Johnson, Lampeter-Strasburg School District, Manheim Central School District, RR Donnelley Financial and S. June Smith Center.

“We want to say thank you to these businesses for all of their hard work,” said Susan Eckert, President of United Way. “Teaming with these and other companies along with local government, faith based groups, nonprofits and volunteers, we are creating lasting change in Lancaster County.”

“Together,” Reuter added, “we can achieve results that no one sector can accomplish alone.”

As a reminder of the impact being made through United Way’s member agencies and services, Reinholds resident Peggy Gehman shared the success of her daughter with the help of United Way supported programs.

Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Melissa has received physical, occupational and speech therapy – helping her with everyday tasks. She also has benefited from integrated socialization through United Way member agencies. “These programs have helped with Melissa’s self esteem and are teaching her valuable social skills,” said Peggy. “And just last week, with the support of these programs, Melissa took her first steps without the assistance of a walker or crutches!”

The final results of the annual campaign will be announced to the community during United Way’s Thank You Celebration on January 24, 2007 at Liberty Place in Lancaster.