United Way kicks off fund-raising campaign

David Coates / The Detroit News

Cynthia Miller says United Way helped her get a wheelchair ramp for her son Phillip. Behind her are, left to right, Phillip Miller; Anthony Adams, deputy mayor of Detroit; Michael Brennan, president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan, and Richard Dauch, 2006 Torch Drive chair.

Santiago Esparza of The Detroit News writes:

DETROIT -- The United Way for Southeastern Michigan kicked off its 58th annual Torch Drive fund-raising campaign this morning at Hart Plaza with officials targeting $61 million in donations through Nov. 15.

A 54-foot torch was lit on Jefferson Avenue at Woodward to symbolize the campaign, which has targeted $5.5 million less than last year's goal. Money raised goes for a host of programs across Metro Detroit.

"The efforts of the United Way are needed now much more than ever," said Detroit Deputy Mayor Anthony Adams this morning during the campaign kickoff.

As part of the kickoff, hundreds of volunteers this week have completed community projects such as home improvements and creating a library.

Officials said tough economic times hit nonprofits hard, causing donations to dry up. They are optimistic that people will step up anyway.

"We know these are tough times, but it's in these times that the residents of southeastern Michigan shine," said United Way CEO and President Michael Brennan.

Cynthia Miller of Detroit has experienced the help the United Way provides. The 51-year-old's son Phillip, 27, was seriously injured in a car crash three years ago. Miller asked the United Way for help obtaining a wheelchair ramp so her son could easily get in and out of their home.

"The United Way means so much to us because of how much our family has been helped," Miller said. "Here is an organization we have probably seen and passed over and not seen the depths of help that comes from it. Adversity can happen to you and none of us are prepared for it."

Miller said she is happy to help the United Way spread the word about its efforts and need for money to fund projects.

"I feel so blessed despite this accident," she said. "My son is alive and I can tell the hopeless there is hope."

You can reach Santiago Esparza at (313) 222-2127 or sesparza@detnews.com.