United Way's 56th Torch Drive Mobilizes Metro Detroiters to Create Lasting Change

DETROIT, Sept. 10 -- United Way Community Services began its 2004 Torch Drive Sept. 10, with the ceremonial lighting of its 54-foot torch in downtown Detroit. The organization then dispatched some 1,200 volunteers into dozens of southeast Michigan communities for a two-day community service blitz known as Days of Caring.

The organization's mission to address what matters in metro Detroit was the impetus for the organization combining its massive Days of Caring effort with the start of its 56th annual fundraising campaign. This Days of Caring opportunity is a joint project of United Way Community Services and United Way of Oakland County. Volunteers will build 40 wheelchair ramps, participate in neighborhood beautification projects, feed the homeless, mentor youths and complete a variety of other service projects in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties through Saturday, Sept. 11.

"United Way cannot do what it does without the help of volunteers. Often a simple act of kindness can impact a life in immeasurable ways. Imagine what the collective action of 1,200 volunteers can do," said Michael J. Brennan, United Way Community Services president.

"When the community takes collective action - not just for a day, a week or a year, but ongoing - we create lasting change. In the process, our community becomes more vibrant, and a healthier place to live, work and raise our families."

United Way hopes to raise $64.5 million this year during its Torch Drive campaign, which runs through Nov. 18.

The 2004 campaign is led by UAW President Ron Gettelfinger, who is serving as the Torch Drive general chair. At the kickoff celebration, held at the Michigan Labor Legacy Project in Hart Plaza, Gettelfinger called on metro Detroiters to invest in their communities by contributing to United Way.

"Organized labor and United Way share a longstanding history," Gettelfinger said. "Union members have always given generously to United Way, and United Way has always been there for union members and their families in times of need."

"These are difficult economic times," he continued. "That's why it is so important that those of us who can give, do give as generously as we can."

This year's Torch Drive has already received an impressive head start thanks to the Pacesetter campaign. These local companies start their fundraising efforts early with a goal of increasing employee participation and corporate giving from the previous year by 12 percent and 10 percent, respectively.

Gary Cowger, president of General Motors North America, acted as chairman for this year's Pacesetter campaign, and it was the most successful in the history of the program. Thirty-three area companies agreed to participate in the campaign, and they have so far contributed a total of $6,557,000 for the United Way.

"The generosity of these companies and their employees is very gratifying," said Cowger. "The increase in donations for this year's campaign will go a long way in helping to improve the lives of those in need in southeast Michigan."

To invest in United Way, or to obtain additional information, call 313-226-9200 or log on to http://www.uwcs.org/.

United Way Community Services improves lives throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way Community Services provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Torch Drive. United Way impacts local people each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at http://www.uwcs.org/.