Last year, Yale employees gave or helped raise $1.4 million through the annual workplace campaign with the United Way of Greater New Haven (UWGNH). These funds were used to meet the immediate needs of children and families facing hunger, homelessness, and financial insecurity. Approximately 100 United Way champions from all corners of campus rallied colleagues or hosted fundraisers in support of the drive.
But what is a champion?
“Champions are key influencers within their units. They generate excitement, plan events, and encourage colleagues to participate,” said Heather Calabrese, assistant vice president for university life and a United Way tri-chair. “Their enthusiasm combined with thoughtful outreach within their groups is vital to the success of the campaign.”
Become a champion
A new fiscal year brings the start of another campaign to raise $1.4 million, themed “Leading the Way.” “We have a terrific group of volunteers, but people retire or cycle off each year. Participation is crucial in continuing our efforts to support children and families in our communities to receive basic needs,” said Nick Balsamo, associate director of internal financial reporting and a core committee member and former champion.
“If you are interested in helping, whether it’s being an ambassador for your unit or coordinating a small event, we welcome the partnership. I have been involved with other charities, but when I decided to focus on United Way, I saw firsthand all the incredible work and the goodwill they bring to the community,” continued Balsamo.
Those interested in becoming champions can do something as simple as talking to teammates about the impact of donations, organizing an in-person or online fundraiser, or volunteering at a food pantry, local school, or community garden.
Champions are supported by the tri-chairs, core committee, and United Way team who give guidance, answer questions, or provide assistance at an event. There is also an online toolkit with helpful resources.
“It is easier than you think. If you have a creative side, the sky is the limit. We are here to help with suggestions, like partnering with other departments or leveraging current unit events,” said Lisa Scott, director of Yale Printing and Publishing Services and a United Way tri-chair. “The critical role of a champion is to share information about how lives are changed for the better through United Way’s programs. The more champions we have, the bigger the impact on our local community.”
Why help?
United Way of Greater New Haven impacts thousands of people in New Haven, Hamden, North Haven, East Haven, West Haven, Orange, Woodbridge, Bethany, North Branford, Branford, Guilford, and Madison. UWGNH offers opportunities for individuals to volunteer their time while supporting personal and important causes. Yale employees can easily submit a pledge in an online portal via a credit or debit card donation or an ongoing payroll deduction.
Yale has a long history of supporting UWGNH, dating back to 1949. Since 2000, the Yale community has raised $25.7 million. As a result of this partnership, UWGNH helps thousands of children and families in a 12-town region each year. Over 147,000 individuals were positively impacted because of the funds raised during the fiscal year 2023 campaign.
“Staff participation, whether it’s a donation or volunteering at a department event, directly benefits those in our community who may be struggling,” said Jennifer Mulligan, senior director finance and administration, Dermatology, Neurology, and Neurosurgery and a United Way tri-chair. “If we all did one small thing to support this year’s campaign, it would have a huge and sometimes life-changing impact on children and families.”
If you would like to volunteer as your department’s champion, contact any of the tri-chairs to find out more.
