United Way’s Susan Ivins, left, Macy’s Campaign Coordinator Sherron Riles, student Maya Goss and Macy’s VP Ish Falla at Macy’s executive team kickoff in Clearwater.

Campaign season is upon us and I feel something different in the air. While it’s still 90+ degrees and the mosquitoes are fierce, the beginning of this year’s United Way campaign feels upbeat and positive.

That may be because we have so many exciting things going on. The official United Way of Tampa Bay Campaign Kickoff is Friday, August 19 at Tropicana Field, courtesy of the Tampa Bay Rays. The festivities begin at 7:30 a.m. and we’ll have you out and on your way back to work by 9:30 at the latest. Plans include many special presentations, a lot of fun and some very special announcements; if you can make it, click here to RSVP.

Nearly 900 companies in the Tampa Bay area conduct United Way campaigns. Some have full-fledged celebrations with presentations, outside speakers, giveaways, games and competitions within groups to see who can raise the most money for the community. Macy’s, for example, kicked off their campaign with a silent auction in which the executives contribute items or services. Macy’s employees across the country who make a pledge get entered to win some fabulous prizes, including tickets to New York to see the Thanksgiving Day parade. Other companies conduct low-key campaigns that are just as important to us and to the community we serve. Our own internal campaign includes a breakfast, a community service project and the ever-popular food-tastings. Our team is still planning, I’ll let you know next month how we did.

If your company is interested in new ideas for your campaign, our Little Book of Big Campaign Ideas has some – well, big ideas. And your relationship manager is always available to help.

Whether your campaign is loud and gregarious or quiet and deliberate, I’m grateful for each person and company who helps us make a difference in our community. Last year you invested more than $23 million in your community through United Way. Thank you for your enthusiasm and for caring about those who need our help. You are making a difference.

 

 

 

Diana Baker, President and CEO