University Park, Pa. — In the face of difficult economic times nationwide, Penn State employees generously came through to contribute $892,077 to the Centre County United Way's 2008 community fundraising campaign. The University far surpassed its goal of $800,000 for the year.
"Just as in past economic slowdowns, Penn State employees once again stepped up to support the United Way, whose 37 member agencies offer the services that strengthen our families and community and improve the quality of life for everyone throughout Centre County," said Penn State President Graham Spanier. "We are very proud of the efforts of so many employees to offer help when it is needed more than ever."
Dozens of special events and initiatives are held by various academic and administrative units such as the Trash to Treasure sale at Beaver Stadium, which is organized by the Office of the Physical Plant and constitutes part of the student campaign, and a special benefit golf outing organized by Information and Technology Services
However, individual contributions through means such as University retiree gifts and voluntary payroll deductions by faculty and staff provide for the bulk of Penn State's fundraising, accounting for about 75 percent of the total. Collectively, the Penn State campaign represents more than 40 percent of the Centre County United Way's $2.1 million campaign goal.
The Centre County United Way is Penn State's "charity of choice, " and provides services and resources that assist community members throughout the year. For example, during a cold winter in the midst of an economic downturn, the organization authorized the appropriation of $10,000 to the Interfaith Mission's Fuel Fund, resources that help the county's residents in need endure the winter with adequate heating oil or other energy sources.
Penn State also works with the United Way through a number of volunteer efforts as well, including the annual Day of Caring and the Loaned Executive Program.
"It is remarkable to see so many employees generously donate their time, talent and financial resources to support the efforts of an incredibly valuable and important community resource," said Rob Pangborn, vice president and dean of Undergraduate Education and chair of the Penn State United Way Committee. "Our appreciation and thanks also go to the steering committee members and the staff support who have helped make our commitment to the United Way possible."