United Way Announces 2011 campaign Goal!

On Friday, September 24, 2011 United Way of Burlington County officially kicked off their 2011 campaign.

The breakfast event, held at the Westin Mt. Laurel, attracted nearly 220 of the county’s business leaders, government representatives and members of the nonprofit community.

The event was presided over by Kevin Kutcher of Liberty Bell Bank and Chairman of the Board.  Kutcher emphasized the need for the community to pull together, “Living United is creating opportunities for a better life for everyone and being a catalyst for change:  changes that go beyond the individual and ripple out to the community as a whole.  We must galvanize and connect all sectors of society — individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations and governments — to create long-term social change,” Kutcher stated. 

Ed O’Malley, Senior Managing Consultant for Gallagher Benefit Services and 2011 Campaign Chairman, announced the organization’s fundraising goal at $4.6 million.  “The very existence of the programs that Kevin told us about this morning depends on us reaching – if not exceeding – this goal,” O’Malley enthusiastically told the crowd. “As a long-time volunteer for United Way, I have seen first hand the difference we have made in people’s lives – from the senior citizen who can stay in her home and remain independent to the young family that can find affordable daycare for their child. Let’s continue to make an impact!”

The program included a keynote address by Tim Kerrihard  CEO and President of YMCA of Burlington & Camden Counties.  Kerrihard emphasized the importance of United Way to partner agencies like the YMCA.    In particular, Kerrhard spoke  the Beverly City Prime Time after-school program.   A hugely successful program, it has helped keep young children safe, healthy and on track in school.   It’s programs like these that thrive with the funds raised during United Way of Burlington County's annual campaign.