United Way Campaign Raises $17,757,000,
Marking Third Consecutive Year of Campaign Growth
 Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) has announced it raised $17,757,000 during the 2007-08 annual campaign, recording its third consecutive year of campaign growth. The number was revealed at an April 29 Victory Celebration attended by nearly 450 civic leaders, corporate partners, agency professional and others.
The 2007-08 fundraising campaign exceeded the previous year’s result by more than $400,000 to mark a resoundingly successful effort.
“Given the economic times, Central Florida businesses showed just how much they care about the community and that they see their United Way as an outlet to channel their contributions for the most impact,” said HFUW President/CEO Robert H. (Bob) Brown.
“Unfortunately, needs will continue to increase in our community; so we will continue to rely heavily on local businesses for their support.”
 Campaign Chair Kathy Waltz, who recently retired as president and CEO of the Orlando Sentinel, thanked the campaign cabinet for their strong support, as well the more than 450 businesses that ran successful workplace giving campaigns.
“After being involved for so long in Central Florida’s news, politics and community affairs, I thought I’d seen and heard just about everything,” Waltz said. “As humbling as it was to see the extent of our community’s need, it was equally gratifying to witness the breadth of our concern and compassion. We are, by and large, a community of generous people who – when asked – will step up and respond.”
WKMG Local 6 anchors Lauren Rowe and Bob Frier emceed the event, which was held at the Wyndham Orlando Resort. Delivering the keynote address, Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty recognized the county’s strong partnership with United Way and said it’s more important than ever – as many local residents struggle to pay for basic necessities such as food and gasoline – for the community to work together to help those in need. |