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    Contact: Kathleen Munch, Resource Development and Communications Manager, 440-285-2261 x223
      Engaging Resources to Improve Lives


      August 17, 2007 (Cleveland, Ohio)
      The Board of Trustees for United Way Services of Geauga County invites you to attend the 2007 Campaign Kick Off on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 from 4pm through 7pm at the United Way office located at 209 Center Street in Chardon. Admission to the event is free! Hot dogs, chips and pop will be served free of charge to those in attendance. The Kick Off will highlight the need for volunteers in Geauga County and serve as a recruitment effort for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Ohio. The event will be fully sponsored by FirstEnergy.

      The campaign kick off provides a visible way for United Way to demonstrate what matters most - that working together makes a difference. Geauga County companies and residents will gather to experience first hand how their generous donations and gifts of time improve the lives of the individuals and families in the community. Leading the 2007 campaign are Co-Chairs Mia Moore, Area Manager for FirstEnergy and Michelle Piscopo, Human Resources Specialist for Pentair Water Treatment . In a statement from the Co-Chairs, Moore stated, "Michelle and I are honored to be leading the 2007 Campaign. We don't know of a better organization for the community to support than United Way. They are working to improve the quality of life for all Geauga County residents and they are supporting programs that could impact each and every one of us sometime during our lifetime." Piscopo added, "Many see Geauga County as a wealthy community without any needs…when in fact the Geauga Hunger Task Force fed over 46,000 meals to hungry individuals last year. The needs in our community are growing and United Way is committed to investing into programs and services that go beyond the crisis to provide solutions to our growing health and human service needs."

      A brief presentation will occur at the event, which is scheduled for approximately 5:00 pm. The presentation will include Pacesetter campaign results followed by an announcement of the annual campaign goal.

      Tim Kehres, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Geauga County and his colleagues will be available to meet with guests at their volunteer recruitment table. The purpose of the table is to gain exposure for the program and to recruit potential volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters and those children that may benefit from having an adult mentor. We encourage guests to bring friends who are interested in learning more about Big Brothers Big Sisters and the United Way!

      For 43 years, Geauga County residents have counted on United Way's local safety net of care thanks to the generosity of donors, who with their gifts support the services provided. Today, United Way Services of Geauga County is focusing on what really matters, the communities highest priority needs. These needs include:
      • Promoting Health and Wellness:United Way Services of Geauga County works to promote and improve the health status of all Geauga County residents by promoting physical and mental well-being through prevention, education, treatment and ability to access affordable health care. United Way supports programs that provide health services to those who otherwise would not be able to afford them.


      • Strengthening Families:United Way Services of Geauga County envisions a community where all children are nurtured by informed parents/caregivers and have access to quality health, developmental and educational services, which prepare them for success in school and life. United Way also visualizes a community where families are strong and healthy, and live in safe, viable neighborhoods. United Way actively supports programs that provide services to children and families in need.


      • Attaining Independence:United Way Services of Geauga County firmly believes in a community where individuals and families can meet life's basic needs and gain economic stability through education, job training, permanent housing, and basic supportive services. United Way supports agencies that encourage and empower individuals to enhance their lives.




      According to Kimm Leininger, LISW, Executive Director of United Way Services of Geauga County, "Our United Way is committed to investing dollars where they are needed….where we will see a long term impact. We are focused, not on what we feel the needs are, but what we know the needs are." Leininger added, "We look forward to sharing our story with the community, because we have a great story to share. In addition, I know that we will make those who support us proud of how and where their dollars are invested."

      Those wishing to join United Way to make a lasting impact in our community can download a pledge card from the website www.uwsgc.org. Donors can contribute in the form of cash, check, credit card, or can choose to be billed. Any company interested in having a workplace campaign, becoming a volunteer or a group that would like a presentation about United Way is encouraged to call the United Way office.

      The event is free and open to the public. Join us for refreshments and door prizes. RSVP's are appreciated, however not required. Please plan to join us!





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