Written by Courier News Staff, The Courier News. July 25, 2014.

http://couriernews.suntimes.com/2014/07/25/united-way-raises-1017000-2013-2014/

United Way of Elgin Raises $1,017,000 in 2013-2014

With a mission to improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world and goals to improve education, financial stability and promote healthy lives, the United Way continues to make a growing impact on the Elgin community.

At the close of the 2013-2014 fiscal year, United Way of Elgin reported $1,017,000 in revenue.

That revenue includes money raised from the community campaign, grants, and other special events. Led by Chair Jennifer Rakow, IHC Construction Companies and Honorary Chair Jack Shales, Shales McNutt, the campaign saw both increased participation and increased giving at several top supporters.

Elgin Community College, School District U-46/Elgin Teachers Association, and Lundstrom Insurance all had double-digit participation increases.

Judson University had the highest overall participation increase, and for the second year in a row, Lamp Inc. achieved 100% participation from employees.

Many people also responded to the Jack Shales 60 for 60 Challenge, issued in honor of Jack’s 60th Anniversary with United Way. We easily hit Jack’s goal of $60,000 new dollars thanks to outstanding support from people like the employees of the City of Elgin, who increased giving by over $5,000 this year, and the Grand Victoria Foundation’s generous $25,000 gift.

United Way of Elgin also received multiple grants during the year for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, which sends free books to children from birth to five.

The Andrew & Alice Fischer Charitable Trust, The EFS Foundation, the Hoffer Foundation, and the City of Elgin Riverboat Fund all helped the program reach over 4,000 kids this past year.

Special events, like the annual Tee It Up! Golf Outing helped raise additional dollars specifically for United Way initiatives like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library or for the Community Fund, which provides funding to local social service programs.

A gift to United Way is one of the most effective ways to help so many people in the community who need help.

If you are interested in learning more about the United Way of Elgin or how you can contribute to support your community, please visit our website atwww.uwelgin.org/give or call Elissa Kojzarek at 847-741-2259.