Rice United Way campaign off to a strong start

Members of the Rice community joined more than 1,200 United Way campaign leaders, volunteers, donors and agency representatives at the United Way of Greater Houston’s annual campaign kickoff Sept. 17. That day also marked the official launch of Rice University’s United Way 2013-14 campaign, which seeks to raise at least $175,000 to help the less fortunate in the city.

Attending the United Way kickoff event were, from left, University Representative Y. Ping Sun; Lauren Cavallaro, Athletics; Czolgus Evans, Continuing Studies; Michelle Kaltenbach, Jones Graduate School of Business; Greg Marshall, Public Affairs; Jose Soto, Jones School; Martie Damon, Enrollment; Dewana Arceneaux, Finance; Linda Jeff, Enrollment; and Veronica Boorom and Leticia Arriola, both Housing and Dining.

At the end of the first week, pledges and contributions to the Rice United Way campaign totaled $48,162. The Finance division leads the pack with $6,815 in contributions and the Investments division has the highest rate of participation with 33 percent. Administration has the most total and lead donors, 13 and five, respectively.

Last year Rice’s campaign broke records by raising more than $200,000 for the organization that helps Houstonians in need of food, clothing, shelter and other services.

United Way of Greater Houston President and CEO Anna Babin thanked donors for their past support at the kickoff event: “You make the work of strengthening families possible. You help seniors remain healthy and independent. You give those who have fallen on hard times a chance to rebuild. You make sure that every call to our 2-1-1 Texas/United Way Helpline is answered. And you give our kids the foundation they need to start — and succeed in — school.”

Rice employees can contribute by making a pledge payable by payroll deductions spread over all paychecks in calendar (and tax) year 2014 by logging in at esther.rice.edu and clicking the “United Way” link to authorize a direct payroll contribution, or use the pledge form on the Rice United Way website, www.rice.edu/unitedway. That same form may also be used to make a cash, check or credit card gift (for tax year 2013).

For more information on the United Way campaign, visit www.rice.edu/unitedway.