October 26, 2001

Since the terrible events of Sept. 11, many people have found themselves with a renewed desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Beginning this week, MGHers will have the opportunity to make a contribution to their own neighbors in need through the 2001 United Way campaign at the MGH.

The campaign kicked off Oct. 25, when employees received pledge cards with their paychecks. Donations of any amount can be pledged, and the cards can be returned to any of several drop-box locations throughout the main campus, health centers and at CNY. MGH departments also have representatives who are available to collect cards and answer questions. Every MGHer who donates to the United Way will be eligible for a variety of raffle prizes, including days of earned time and Boston Bruins tickets.

"Every year, MGH employees demonstrate their generosity in giving to the United Way," says Debra Doroni, administrative director of MGH Surgery and the 2001 campaign co-chair. "It is our hope that the same generosity and caring will be displayed this year, so that many more needy individuals and families – in the Boston area and beyond – will benefit."

Last year, the MGH United Way campaign raised $206,847 – a hospital record. The MGH hopes to top that amount with a 2001 goal of $225,000. In addition to helping numerous human services organizations – with causes ranging from educating children struggling with poverty to providing care and companionship for the elderly – the campaign also can directly benefit the MGH. Many MGH patients and families depend upon the services of United Way-sponsored organizations. A percentage of all funds raised beyond the yearly goal also will be used to support MGH programs and departments, such as MGH Social Service.

For more information about the MGH United Way campaign, watch for upcoming features in Hotline and visit www.mgh.harvard.edu/pubaffairs/UnitedWay/uwhome.htm.

Last year's United Way campaign set a record for hospitalwide giving.