“The future’s so bright, I have to wear shades,” was the theme of the 2nd Annual United Way Launch and Learn. The 2009 LIVE UNITED Community Fund Campaign got off to an inspired start Wednesday morning [August 19] at the Hill Theatre on the University Center Rochester campus. Business and community leaders joined campaign volunteers to launch several weeks of workplace and other campaigns to advance the common good in Olmsted County.
(top) Jon Eckhoff, Karen Erlenbusch, Susan Ahlquist, Kelly McDonough, Bob Billman, and Mike Schnell
Following a welcome by Rochester Community and Technical College President Don Supalla, United Way President Karen Erlenbusch reviewed recent achievements made possible through the LIVE UNITED Community Fund and introduced the 2009 video.
Susan Ahlquist shared the Mayo Clinic’s tradition of support for United Way, highlighting not only their campaign but also other efforts like their winter clothing drive – now in its 10th year.
Kelly McDonough recounted the recent goal-making and goal-breaking campaigns at First Alliance Credit Union.
Bob Bilman described the work of the Children’s Dental Health program at which he volunteers.
Mike Schnell promoted Emerging Leaders In Giving – sharing his experience and the benefits of providing opportunities for community service to employees.
But it was Jon Eckhoff whose energy defined the morning event. “When 99 say you can’t and one says you can, listen to the one,” Jon said. “In fact, be the one.”
Following the launch event, campaign volunteers serving as employee campaign coordinators or participating in the speaker’s bureau, broke out into training sessions.
Tags: Add new tag, bob billman, campaign, ELIG, Emerging Leaders in Giving, first alliance, jon eckhoff, karen erlenbusch, kelly mcdonough, live united community fund, mayo clinic, mike schnell, susan ahlquist
