A yearly campuswide fundraising campaign that supports local nonprofits and those in need launched Sept. 25, with contributions already in its donations box.

The Cornell United Way campaign, which supports the United Way of Tompkins County (UWTC), jumpstarted its fundraising efforts with a focused pacesetter campaign earlier in September. That resulted in gifts to date already surpassing $75,000.

“That is solid progress toward our $575,000 goal,” said campaign co-chair Brandon Fortenberry, senior manager of dining training and development for Student and Campus Life (SCL).

He and campaign co-chair Pat Wynn, assistant vice president of SCL, commit time and money each year to the fundraising because of their personal connections to the campaign, he said.

“I always designate a portion of my donation to an organization that is near and dear to me – the Ithaca Youth Bureau Big Brother/Big Sister program – because I know they receive 100% of my contribution,” Fortenberry said. “I chose to increase my donation this year since I know that needs have increased for our community. If you have never given before, please consider joining us this year to see the impact you can have with one-time or recurring donations.”

Because the university is a Cornerstone Partner, which helps to underwrite UWTC’s administrative costs, 100% of gifts from Cornell faculty, staff, students and retirees goes directly to services. Payroll deduction is available.

“I give to the United Way because I have so much to be thankful for in my life,” Wynn said. “Not long ago, I observed from my bedroom window a man with a bicycle sorting through my recycling and removing cans and bottles to redeem. I hope that some portion of my donation to the community care fund can help him and others get through the day and night with food and shelter and clothing.”

Last year’s Cornell United Way campaign raised nearly $470,000 from the generosity of 443 donors.

Fortenberry and Wynn will reach out to campus leaders in the coming weeks, asking to visit staff meetings across campus to discuss the importance of everyone giving to the campaign, even if just a few dollars, to help neighbors across the region.

The UWTC is expanding its campaign efforts throughout the county, said Sherri Koski, executive director of Ithaca Community Childcare Center and a co-chair of the UWTC campaign.

“As a longtime volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact our contributions make across the community,” Koski said, “especially through the UWTC Impact Partner Network, made up of local recipient organizations that touch the lives of so many in need.”

When Cornellians give, it’s a game changer, because widespread, collective support has the power to transform outcomes on a large scale, she said.

“Together, we can ensure that critical services reach those who need them most, creating a stronger, more compassionate Tompkins County for everyone.”

Susan Riley is Cornell’s interim director of Community Relations.