United Way Thanks Deschutes Co. Business Donors

BEND, OR -- The United Way of Deschutes County gathered its supporters at the Bend Golf and Country Club to express a message of gratitude and to recognize the contributions of supporting companies and employee groups of the 2009/10 fundraising campaign.

"The campaign continues with 92 percent of the $1.3 million goal raised thus far," noted Tami MacLeod, Karnopp Petersen LLP and volunteer campaign chair. "During a very challenging time for so many, we appreciate the generosity of the community and believe it's important that we pause to give credit where it's due and thank all who donated their time, money and energy."

MacLeod also mentioned the power of the Give $5. Add $5. Tell 5. campaign message, stating: "A $5 a week donation will feed 100 people three meals a day for three days. Telling 5 people has an even greater impact as more people become aware of the difference they can make by making a pledge or adding to their current pledge."

The annual Donor Appreciation Breakfast, sponsored by Mid Oregon Credit Union, drew a crowd of more than 100; with a dozen United Way partner agencies on hand as well. Campaign Volunteer Award recipient

J.R. Lithiser, a burn victim, gave a brief talk about his challenges and triumphs and the tremendous support provided along the way by Central Oregon Resources for Independent Living (CORIL)-a United Way funded agency. With his son looking on, J.R. said: "The programs and services that help people like me are just so important and I thank you for your donations and volunteer time that make it possible for me to stand here in front of you today."

The gathering continued with recognition for media support and the 2009/10 Cornerstone Partners-the Corporate Cornerstone Program allows corporations, foundations and small businesses the opportunity to direct their annual gift toward underwriting the operating costs of the United Way of Deschutes County. Individual donor contributions then go directly toward programs that help change lives in our community. Currently, 97 cents of every dollar raised as individual donor contributions goes directly to programs that help change lives in the community.

Awards were then presented to volunteers and companies in honor of their achievements during the campaign-all of whom are listed on the attached addendum.

As the need grows for funding to support programs that serve families, kids, youth, elderly and victims of abuse, the United Way of Deschutes County will continue with plans to reach their goal and beyond. Members of the community, both individuals and companies, are encouraged to help by calling the United Way office, pledging online or sharing the message among co-workers, family and friends.

United Way Donor Appreciation Awards

Cornerstone Partners:
Cascade Healthcare Community
JELD WEN
Mt. Bachelor Resort
Sunriver Resort
Costco
Deschutes Brewery
Karnopp Petersen LLP
LifeWise Health Plan of Oregon
Microsemi Power Products
U.S.Bank
Bob Thomas Car Company
Bryant, Lovlien & Jarvis
Central Oregon Association Realtors
Heart Center Cardiology
macy's
Newport Avenue Market
Pepsi Cola of Bend
Robberson Ford Mazda
SELCO Community Credit Union

Best New Campaign:
Bi-Mart, Sisters

Best Overall Campaign:C
Costco

First United eCampaign:
Mid Oregon Credit Union

Outstanding Corporate Support:
Sunriver Resort

Best Overall Support: Karnopp Petersen LLP

Campaign Volunteer Award:
J.R. Litehiser

Outstanding Employee Campaigns:
Bank of the Cascades
Bend Memorial Clinic
Central Electric Cooperative
Nosler
Horizon Broadcasting Group
H.D. Fowler