SU United Way campaign set to launch Sept. 23

Syracuse University is preparing to launch its 2011 United Way campaign, “Live United,” which will begin Sept. 23 and run through Dec. 9.

Volunteering to lead SU’s 2011 campaign efforts are Chief Tony Callisto, director of the Department of Public Safety, and Suzanne Thorin, dean of libraries. Callisto and Thorin will serve as SU’s campaign chair and vice chair, respectively.

In preparation for the campaign, Callisto and Thorin are recruiting a cross-campus leadership team, which will coordinate campus campaign events and communicate the benefits of supporting the United Way. From October through December, departments across campus sponsor United Way events including silent auctions, barbecues, a chili cook-off, basket extravaganzas, an art auction and craft fairs.

In September, a pledge card with a message from Chancellor Cantor will be sent to all faculty and staff members, followed by e-pledge e-mails in October and November. At the bottom of each e-mail, donors will be invited to click through and make a paperless, electronic pledge.

“So many people are touched by the work that the United Way does,” says Callisto. “They are there to help folks in this community who need a hand during difficult economic times. This fall, I’ll be encouraging University employees to give their time and resources to make this campaign a success. Even if it’s just a dollar a week, that sum can add up quickly.”

Through participation in the annual Central New York United Way Campaign, SU is able to contribute to the efforts that benefit 95 local programs and services through 35 agencies. Last year, the campaign at the University raised a record-setting $215,000.

To become involved in SU’s “Live United” campaign, contact Jenn Horvath at 443-8328 or jmhorv01@syr.edu.