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Wednesday, August 16, 2006

United Way sets 2006 Torch Drive goal

PRESS RELEASE

August 16, 2006

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or pager, 313-840-1948
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321

DETROIT – United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Board of Directors announced it has approved a 2006 Torch Drive goal of $61 million. The goal was recommended and unanimously supported by United Way’s 2006 Campaign Cabinet, led by Torch Drive General Chair, Richard E. Dauch, co-founder, chairman & CEO, American Axle & Manufacturing. Last year’s Torch Drive goal was $66.5 million. More than $64 million was raised.


“We are facing tremendous economic challenges, due to the structural changes impacting our region’s manufacturing industry and business community,” said Dauch. “Those changes, along with rising health care costs, have dramatically increased the need for health and human services. This year’s goal was based on in-depth research and thoughtful discussions, with a clear understanding of the importance of attaining our goal in order to best serve those who need our help most. We are grateful to have a chance to serve.”

Dauch added, “We invite all businesses, groups and individuals to take an active role in strengthening our region by contributing to United Way’s campaign. It is critical that this campaign be a success in order for us to continue to meet the needs of our community. I am confident that with the help of a dynamic campaign cabinet and thousands of volunteers and contributors, we will achieve our goal.”

United Way’s Torch Drive helps support hundreds of programs and services devoted to nurturing children and youth, strengthening families, promoting health and wellness, and empowering neighborhoods and communities throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

“We are grateful for the generous commitment of Dick Dauch, the numerous volunteers, and all our supporters and partners who help us attain the resources necessary to improve lives and change the underlying causes of problems in order to make a lasting difference throughout our region,” said Michael J. Brennan, president & CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

“Together, we can accomplish what no single group or individual can do alone.”


This year’s Torch Drive will kick off Friday, Sept. 8, with a 6:30 a.m. lighting of United Way’s 54-foot torch in downtown Detroit. There will also be several volunteer activities, including sorting food, painting, beautification projects and agency makeovers where volunteers will create four resource libraries throughout the region to enhance early childhood literacy levels.

The Torch Drive concludes Nov. 15. For more information call 313-226-9300 or click on www.onewaytohelp.org.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Torch Drive and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org.

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