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The 2013 Kent State University United Way Workplace Campaign — The Triple Crown of Giving — has begun and will run through Oct. 31, 2012.

Today, even as Portage County and the Kent community are making great strides in economic development, many residents continue to feel the effects of the recession. Throughout Portage County, 13.7 percent of residents live in poverty. In fact, nearly a quarter (23 percent) of college-age adults, along with children under five, live below the poverty threshold.  It’s likely we all know someone — a neighbor, a friend or even a student — who is experiencing very hard times.

Unemployment remains high.  Home foreclosures continue.  Food banks are struggling to keep up with demand. Such conditions put significant stress and strain on families and communities. 

We at Kent State are fortunate to have a great place to work, making it possible for us to consider the needs of others. Will you unleash your spirit of giving and join with your colleagues in supporting the United Way?

As you are considering your contribution this year, please keep this in mind: Last year, only 15 percent of our Kent Campus employees (faculty and staff) participated in the United Way Campaign. Imagine how much more we could offer the United Way to help others if more of us would lend a helping hand. 

This year we would like to see the 15 percent participation rate in the United Way campaign triple — to at least 45 percent.  We call this goal THE TRIPLE CROWN OF GIVING.   Rather than focus on a specific dollar amount, we are asking that more of us join in the spirit of giving to others in need. We are counting on the idea that if more of our Kent State family give, at even the most modest of amounts, we will exceed the total of previous years.

I am writing to ask you personally to make the commitment to give to United Way. You can make a difference. Join those who have committed to help others.

As usual, we will have a quick and easy way for you to give online through payroll deductions. To give to United Way online, you should sign-in to FlashLine. In FlashLine, select the My HR Tab. Once in the My HR tab, select United Way E-give within the Employment Details section.

You can also download a paper form from the site if you prefer to send your contribution that way. Completed forms may be sent to Pat Nash in the University Relations office or faxed to 330-672-7301.

When you give to United Way, I guarantee you will feel good as you are doing good. We are counting on YOU. 

Best regards,
Iris E. Harvey
Vice President for University Relations
2013 United Way Campaign Chair