Robert Barker/University Photography

Before several dozen United Way volunteer ambassadors, Cornell President David Skorton helps to kick off this year's campaign Sept. 8.

Robert Barker/University Photography

Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick '09 shares his personal story about how the United Way and other social services groups helped his family when it was in need.

With reminders to nurture the community that cultivates the university, Cornell kicked off its 2014-15 United Way campaign Sept. 8 before several dozen United Way volunteer ambassadors at Friends Hall. This year’s goals: $815,000 in donations and to achieve more faculty and staff participation.

About 40 percent of local funding for the United Way comes from the generosity of Cornell faculty and staff. Last year 42 member agencies and 13 nonmember agencies benefited from United Way funding, including the American Red Cross, Challenge Workforce Solutions, Gadabout Transportation and Foodnet Meals on Wheels.

“Thousands of our friends and neighbors in Tompkins County struggle daily with a variety of challenges … and need these services,” said Cornell President David J. Skorton. “Any of us could find ourselves in circumstances of need. We need to contribute to this wonderful community.”

Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick ’09 shared a personal story. Myrick, with his mother and siblings, bounced through homeless shelters and transitional housing until he was 8 years old. “We had the support of United Way agencies and social services programs,” he said.

Anne Kenney, the Carl A. Kroch University Librarian, serves as Cornell’s 2014-15 campaign chair. She told the volunteer ambassadors that the United Way’s Corporate Cornerstone Partners underwrite all administrative and operating expenses. “Every dollar you give goes directly to the program you want to support,” Kenney said. “Even a small amount makes a huge difference.”

Staff and faculty who live outside of Tompkins County can give to agencies in their home counties, Kenney said.

James Brown, president of the United Way of Tompkins County, explained the United Way’s philosophy. “Whether it is a senior who needs tax counseling, or a child who needs daycare, United Way is about helping.  It is about individual stories and lives.  We want the people in our community to have the resources to overcome hurdles, and to have opportunities to grow and lead productive lives.”

Several upcoming events will benefit the United Way campaign:

• The Stephen E. Garner Day of Caring, which kicks off the United Way of Tompkins County community campaign, will be held Sept. 30 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Stewart Park Large Pavilion in Ithaca. On that day, nonperishable food, personal care items and school supplies will be gathered at locations across campus and around the county to benefit local residents. The donations will be distributed after the Day of Caring. Last year, more than 14,000 pounds of supplies were distributed.
• Between Oct. 1 and Dec. 23, staff, faculty and other shoppers at the Cornell Store can donate $1 to the United Way of Tompkins County when they shop.
• The Cornell women’s hockey game, Nov. 15 at 3 p.m. at Lynah Rink, will benefit the United Way of Tompkins County. Last year, the game raised about $2,000.