More than 1,500 workplaces helped raise $32.1 million for the community last year through United Way of Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes’ annual campaign. This year’s campaign, which launched today, will focus on “making way for good” across six counties.
“During a year when COVID-19 made it difficult for many workplaces to run their yearly campaigns, more than 1,500 workplaces stepped up and supported us, with tens of thousands of individual donors investing in United Way’s Community Impact Fund,” says Bill Goodrich, CEO of LeChase Construction and 2021 campaign chair. “The 2021 campaign affirmed we are certainly a community that is Built Together, Built Strong.”
In addition to the “Built Together, Built Strong” campaign, which brought in $20.6 million, community grants, ROC the Day and community initiatives totaled $9 million. Other giving boosted the total funds by $2.5 million. United Way was able to fully fund its network of 142 partners and 192 programs.
“Make Way for Good” will be chaired by Frank Hamlin, president and CEO of Canandaigua National Bank and Trust. It marks the 104th campaign for United Way and its first-ever effort spanning six counties.
This year, all new and increased donations to United Way’s Community Impact Fund will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $500,000 through the Canandaigua National Bank & Trust 6-County Challenge Grant.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified our community’s challenges, but right now, we all have an opportunity to help make our region a better place,” Hamlin says. “We can rally and be a greater force for positive change.”
The 2022 United Way Campaign will focus on moving forward, advancing the next generation, and sparking equal opportunity.
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor.