The annual FGCU United Way campaign is more than halfway toward its goal of raising $35,000 by Feb. 26.
United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee supports 85 partner agencies and more than 200 programs and initiatives that served more than 300,000 people last year. These agencies include the Boys and Girls Club, the Children’s Advocacy Center, Senior Friendship Centers and Lee Mental Health.
“Through these organizations, United Way positively affects the lives of our friends and neighbors of all ages,” President Wilson G. Bradshaw said in a campus-wide message launching the campaign. “United Way also benefits high-profile agencies such as the American Red Cross, the Harry Chapin Food Bank and the Salvation Army. These agencies are known for providing basic humanitarian aid to families and individuals in need.”
Some of the money raised also comes back to the university. Last year, the FGCU Scholars Program received $20,000 from United Way. This funding supports Scholars’ chapters in 25-30 schools and community centers and serves nearly 500 students in fourth through 12th grades who need academic support and assistance as they prepare for post-secondary education.
“This is a big part of our budget,” said Dolores Kiesler, director of Student Support Services and Outreach Programs, which oversees the Scholars program. “We are constantly looking for grant money.”
The Scholars Program helps students focus on developing academic excellence, leadership, service and citizenship through activities such as afterschool tutoring, career and college exploration, ACT/SAT preparation, financial literacy, coping strategies and enrichment programs. It also brings potential future Eagles to FGCU during summer to introduce them to campus life. Middle school students live in residence halls for three days, while high school juniors stay for a week of educational and inspirational activities.
Supporting United Way can help more of these at-risk students see higher education as a reachable goal. Every dollar makes a difference in a life. Payroll deductions can be made through Gulfline. United Way team leaders throughout campus have pledge forms for one-time cash or check donations. Contributions are tax-deductible.