Mayor's Office

City of Flint Holds Kickoff for United Way Charitable Campaign

The City of Flint held a kickoff event today for its 2015 United Way Charitable Campaign. Each year City employees elect to make donations to the United Way to help the less fortunate of the community. Members of the United Way team and other local charities were on hand to discuss the services they provide the community in the areas of health, education, financial stability and basic needs.

Mayor Walling speaks during the 2015 United Way Campaign Kickoff
Mayor Walling speaks during the 2015 United Way Campaign Kickoff

Mayor Dayne Walling praised the combined efforts of City employees and the charities involved. “Our City has a long and proud history of stepping up to help the less fortunate in our community during a time when the need for help is greatest,” said Mayor Walling, “year after year it serves as a reminder that the idea of fellowship is alive and strong in Flint.” The month long campaign with help the United Way and its partners raise funds for the holiday season and through the winter.

Each year the United Way enlists the help of Campaign Coordinators, City employees who take an active role in recruiting donors from their departments and divisions and explaining the various organizations and programs they opt for their contributions. “There are a lot of great agencies doing tremendous work for the community,” said United Way CEO Jamie Gaskin. “Whether people donate to the United Way in general or to one or more of the specific programs, all the dollars raised stay here to help the Flint Community.”

During the Kickoff event, tables are set out with representatives from the partner agencies who provide information to employees about how the ways they can benefit their community while also offering cider and donuts to those in attendance. Packets are given to Campaign Coordinators for sharing in their departments and include pledge forms, brochures and cards for Michigan 2-1-1.

City of Flint employees examine the many programs available to which they can make their charitable contributions.
City of Flint employees examine the many programs available to which they can make their United Way charitable contributions.

AFSCME Local 1600 President Sam Muma said the campaign is a fun and easy way for City workers to continue to help the community they serve. “Last year, City of Flint employees donated $5,688 to local charities through the United Way Campaign,” said Muma. “Not only does the giving at this time of year have the greatest impact, but it makes us feel good to give back to the community we call home.”

The City of Flint’s United Way Campaign is a partnership that has lasted for over 50 years. Each year the Campaign supports 43 programs that serve over 57,000 residents in Flint and Genesee County. This year’s campaign will run until November 20, 2015.