United Way of Porter County announced that community volunteers raised $2,143,303 during their 2007/08 campaign, representing 104% of their goal.  The results were revealed to more than 300 supporters in attendance at the United Way's Annual Appreciation Dinner held at the Porter County Expo Center on March 13^th.  "These financial resources will help to make lasting change in local communities and advance the common good for all," stated Sharon Kish, President of United Way of Porter County.  Thirty-eight partnering agencies receive funding from United Way of Porter County, and dollars raised through the campaign support a variety of local concerns-from prenatal care, to assisting the homeless in obtaining necessities such as food and clothing, to end-of-life compassionate care.  Over 62,000 individuals and families were impacted by a United Way-funded service this past year in Porter County.  The annual campaign is unique in that it allows a donor to give to all, by giving to just one.

"What an exciting year!" added Dave White, United Way's Board Chair.  "Not only did we have Tom and Karen Kennedy as wonderful co-chairs who devoted hundreds of hours to the campaign, but they also donated a 2008 Buick LaCrosse from their dealership, Kennedy Buick Mazda, in honor of United Way's 50^th Anniversary." 

The Kennedy's were honored with their role and expressed their gratitude for the extraordinary group of volunteers who provided leadership during the campaign.  A number of different groups were recognized including Campaign Division Chairs, Loaned Executives, and companies achieving a 25% increase in their campaign totaling $500 or more.  They also extended thanks to the Tocqueville Society, the highest level of support among Leadership Donors, as well as to all the generous donors to the campaign.  "We know the generosity of employees, union members, organizations and others comes from the trust that donors have in United Way; that their hard-earned dollars will be invested to improve health, empower our youth, and rebuild our communities," stated Tom Kennedy.

Anyone contributing $52 or more to the campaign was given a chance to win the 2008 Buick LaCrosse.  Prior to the Appreciation Dinner, a drawing for five finalists was videotaped by Bob Phelps' students at the Porter County Career and Technical Center.  The finalists were then asked to be in attendance at the dinner, where one winner would choose the matching key to the car.  Nicole Rash, Miss Indiana and First Runner-Up for Miss America, was invited to present the keys to the finalists.  Cindy Rash, Nicole's mother, has served on the Board for United Way of Marshall County.  Nancy Porter of Porter Township Schools was the lucky winner and gave a heart-felt thank you for her 35 years in education and the good works of United Way.

PHOTO:  (L-R) Miss Indiana Nicole Rash, Ross and Nancy Porter, and Karen and Tom Kennedy celebrate the Buick LaCrosse give-a-way.