TO:	The University Community
FROM:	Thomas H. Jackson
RE:	1999 United Way Campaign

Jackson

The United Way Campaign is the University's most comprehensive way of enabling University faculty and staff to offer financial support for the programs and agencies throughout the Rochester community on which we, and our friends and neighbors, rely. It is an honor for me to chair this important effort.

Last year we raised $640,000 in our most successful campaign yet. This year I would like to think we can do even better. The need for United Way programs is just as real in 1999 as it was last year. I personally believe that all of us have a role in supporting United Way efforts for the benefit of our community and our own institution.

The United Way supports more than 200 local programs and thousands of individuals, including our own employees. The United Way is again highlighting five priority "impact areas": Success by 6 (programs preparing children for success in school), Kids on Track (helping school-age children succeed before, during, and after school, with caring adults serving as role models), Strengthening Families, Helping Seniors, and Overcoming Disabilities. These areas are described in the literature you will receive.

The decision to contribute is a personal one, but please remember that you also can decide, through the Donor Option Program, exactly where your gift goes. Or, you can designate your gift to one of the "impact areas" if you so wish.

The number of University community members who contribute is just as important as the dollars raised, so I urge each of you to consider a contribution when you receive your packet of United Way materials.