The 2008 United Way Community Campaign has raised the largest amount ever collected in its 84-year history.
“I am so honored and grateful to announce this year’s campaign has raised a record-breaking $28.1 million,” said Douglas G. Elliot, 2008 United Way Community Campaign chairman and president and CEO of the Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Co.
Even in the midst of the most serious economic crisis in generations, the campaign raised nearly $500,000 more than last year. Elliot declared victory to a crowd of more than 600 campaign volunteers and corporate and community leaders who gathered to celebrate this year’s results at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford.
The University of Connecticut Health Center will use a $3.8 million gift to create an integrated imaging and treatment suite that will enhance patient care, particularly in cancer and cardiology. The pledge comes from Carole and Ray Neag, whose history of philanthropic support includes more than $42 million in gifts to the university.
At its annual meeting, the Rockville General Hospital Auxiliary donated $58,174 to 19 hospital departments, as well as to the Women’s Center for Wellness in South Windsor, and Woodlake at Tolland. This year’s gifts will make possible the purchase of medical and office equipment.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society Connecticut Chapter received recognition honors at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society 2008 National Conference. The chapter received The Cavallo Circle of Honor Award for outstanding work in client programs, professional education and advocacy. The chapter has been named to the Cavallo award since 2002. The Circle of Honor designation recognizes chapters who earn the award on a consistent basis.
Employees from the state Department of Revenue Services’ Taxpayer Services Division, which is based in Hartford, recently donated $3,610 to Operation Fuel to go along with $3,000 the staff raised in March, for a total donation of $6,610 this year.
The Connecticut Council for Philanthropy has launched “Ways to Share … A Holiday Wish List.” This online searchable database makes it easy for individuals, businesses and corporations to plan their holiday giving. Ways to Share lists the needs of more than 200 nonprofits from 51 towns in the state in a list that is searchable by agency name and town. Items on the 2008 Ways to Share range from toys, mittens and warm clothing to turkeys, paper goods and gift cards. In addition, “big wishes” include vans, laptops and furniture. The 2008 Ways to Share may be accessed on the Web at ctphilanthropy.org/waystoshare.
