Message from the Campaign Chair
October 2009
Cornell University and the United Way of Tompkins County have enjoyed a solid partnership that spans decades. This relationship is supported by more than 100 local agencies that offer hope to people in our community who need assistance.
The Cornell community annually provides the single largest contribution to the overall Tompkins county campaign. Last year Cornellians generously contributed almost 40 percent of the total Tompkins County campaign.
In setting Cornell's 2009 goal of $725,000, university campaign leaders were sensitive to the tough economic times we are facing, and reductions in the number of Cornell employees. At the same time, state funding cuts in the coming year may affect the level of services many United Way agencies can offer.
The good news is that every dollar contributed by generous donors will go directly to support local agencies. Several local businesses, including Cornell, have joined forces to fund all operating expenses for the United Way of Tompkins County during the 2009-10 campaign.
Your donation, whatever the dollar amount, is needed as well as appreciated, and will go directly to vital non-profit agencies that need a hand. We have established a target of 20% employee participation in order to meet our $725,000 goal.
I am honored to be the United Way Chair this year and hope that you will contribute to the United Way. The need is now.
Thank you for your support!
David R. Harris