With donations from OSU students, alumni and faculty, the university has surpassed the United Way Agency Campaign’s projected goal of $250,000.
Across campus, there are clubs and organizations dedicated to reaching this yearly fundraiser goal. These organizations host events and activities such as games, cook-offs and corn hole tournaments while raising money for important causes.
The United Way strives to achieve several goals such as benefitting education, reducing poverty and keeping Payne County a safe place. They’ve partnered with 22 organizations including Wings of Hope, the Saville Center, the Red Cross, Stillwater Literacy Council and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
With the money they receive through donations and fundraisers, The United Way provides food, electricity, running water, medical care, legal services and mental health assistance for Payne County residents who are struggling financially.
Because of OSU’s contributions, a quarter of The United Way’s $ 1 million overall goal has been reached. Jon Pedersen and co-chair Gina Peek, the ones who supervise OSU’s campaign, were both pleased by this exceptional development.
"The generosity of our Cowboy family shone brightly this year, and our community is stronger because of it,” Pedersen said. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support and commitment to the United Way of Payne County OSU campaign, helping us meet and exceed the goal.”
Peek is a new addition to the co-chair position. She has discovered that Stillwater partners with United Way in many more ways than she had expected, and encourages students to get involved.
“If you want to get involved with the United Way campaign, consider volunteering for one of their 22 partnering agencies,” Peek said. “And if you want to get involved on campus, see your department head about what fundraising events are available in your college. Each college at OSU contributes in different ways, from chili cook-offs to corn hole tournaments. My favorite activity is participating in fun runs. It’s a small way to contribute to the community.”
Faculty and staff have the opportunity to take payroll deductions to donate to United Way, and can also set up their own fundraisers through kits provided by the OSU Campaign HQ website. These contributions have made OSU the single biggest contributor to United Way’s fundraiser goal.
For more information about the campaign and how to contribute, visit https://www.unitedwaypaynecounty.org/osu-campaign-hq.