Iroquois Campaign - A Stunning Success!

The winning Iroquois campaign committee did it again!

Click here for a memorable campaign photo album

If Valley United Way had a dictionary entry for a successful campaign, it would probably be "Iroquois" - as in Iroquois Gas Transmission which annually runs one of the most successful and fun campaigns. Their campaign includes both high tech (They were the first in the Valley to run an electronic campaign) and low tech (ice cream sundaes and book sales) and are a model for others to emulate.

Iroquois has a strong year round relationship with Valley United Way which this year includes Iroquois' own Ruth Parkins serving as Chair of the Board of Directors at Valley United Way, and Adrienne Cabral serving as Co-chair of United Way's Corporate Volunteer Council. They are leaders in campaign and in the community.

This year's campaign kicked off with pie and ice cream, the showing of the United Way video and some words of encouragement from Jay Holm. Employees then returned to work where they found e-mails officially announcing the start of campaign and instructing them on how to use United Way's on-line campaign system (eWay). How successful were they? With under 85 employees, they raised a phenomenal total of over $25,000 which is matched with a corporate gift. When you add in the funds raised from special events, this small company raised over $51,000 for the community! Thank you Iroquois.

Perhaps the reason for the success of the campaign can be found in Ruth Parkins introduction of the United Way President & C.O.O. Jack Walsh and the main Oz characters in attendance at the wrap-up rally (Please check out the photo album!!):

"As President and COO, Jack Walsh is out in the community doing the wonderful things he does to improve the quality of services provided by the United Way to its partner agencies and the community.

Jack, let's see how we might help our friends find what they need….

Cowardly Lion - I think the Boy Scouts can help you find the courage you are looking for. The BSA's help youth to develop character, citizenship and personal fitness qualities, including initiative, courage and resourcefulness. And, the Valley YMCA can help you maintain the strength a lion needs to be King.

Tin Man- As the wizard pointed out, it's not really a heart that you need, but rather you need to get in touch with your feelings. There are many agencies that might provide the counseling you need, as well as the American Red Cross that keeps the blood flowing.

Scarecrow - You're looking for a brain, but it's really knowledge you need. United Way is focused on early childhood education - through the Born Learning program and agencies like the Boys and Girls Club offer a safe place to learn and grow -- all while having fun.

Munchkin - You munchkins have a very unique culture. And cultural diversity is an issue that the International Institute is very helpful in dealing with in providing services to those in need.

Nikka the WW's head Flying Monkey - Spread your wings and gain your independence from a wicked home life. The Umbrella domestic violence program can provide the shelter and guidance you need to start over. Or sign up for the Recreation Camp where you can have fun rather than tearing poor straw men apart.

Dorothy - We know you're missing your Auntie Em, but the Big Brothers/Big Sisters can provide the adult mentoring and support a child needs until you find your way home.

So you see, United Way dollars go to support many agencies that
help those in need in our community. But it can't be done without raising funds through campaigns such as ours. So we thank you for your generous support.

Now, I'm sure you're all tired after such a long journey, so why don't you take your seats and rest."

And we think that all of our friends at Iroquois deserve to rest themselves after the fantastic job that they did with their campaign. We only wish that more companies could follow their lead!!

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