October 10, 2003

MGHers putting themselves in the way - the United Way

The United Way is known for bringing hope to millions of people throughout the country, and each year MGHers rally to contribute to the cause. This week, the MGH kicked off its annual fundraising campaign for the United Way, which will bring hope and assistance to Massachusetts residents, as well as to the MGH community.

The campaign features a variety of MGHers shown on posters and fliers highlighting the United Way's slogan "Put Yourself in the Way," which illustrates the fact that every person's contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. The campaign also highlights some of the issues that affect Massachusetts residents - such as homelessness, drug abuse and domestic violence.

Last year, the MGH campaign raised more than $244,000 in support of the network of health and human services organizations supported by the United Way. The goal of this year's campaign is $260, 000, which is a 6.5 percent increase from last year's goal.

"This is our opportunity as a community to step forward and help our patients, co-workers and neighborhoods when they are at their neediest," says Dawn Tenney, RN, MSN, associate chief of MGH Perioperative Nursing and co-chair of the United Way campaign.

Another important aspect of the United Way campaign is that a percentage of the money raised beyond the goal goes directly back to the hospital in the form of a donation to the MGH Social Services Department. Monies from this donation help to provide essential services to patients and their families - such as affordable lodging and transportation for out-of-town patients and their families; such essential supplies as medicine and eyeglasses; and assistance with rent, utilities and food.

"The United Way often is our silent partner in dealing with complex patient and family issues," says Harry Rubash, MD, co-chair of the MGH United Way campaign.

The campaign runs from Oct. 6 through 24. This is the first year that on-line pledge cards have been introduced. MGHers will receive information through broadcast
e-mail messages about the campaign as well as the on-line pledge card. For those employees who do not have e-mail, pledge cards will be mailed to their home addresses. Pledge cards may be dropped into any of the United Way boxes located throughout the hospital. For more information, MGHers are encouraged to speak to their department heads.