Employees Exceed the Goal
HCHD unites for a successful United Way campaign

This year, more children will play ball on a manicured field, wear new clothes to school and fall asleep with fuller tummies thanks to the generosity of Harris County Hospital District staff in this year's United Way Campaign. Together, we are changing lives.

HCHD donations surpassed the goal of $88,000. To date, contributions have already reached $115,000. The campaign's success reflects staff's generosity and support of the community and children like those in the DePelchin Children's Center.

DePelchin is one of many United Way agencies benefiting from the campaign. The foster care and adoption agency provides children with a stable and healthy living environment.

“United Way touches many lives on a daily basis and helps many people,” said Angie Rios, Payroll Analyst and Co-Chair for HCHD's campaign. “So many HCHD employees were willing to help us help others.”

In 2003, staff collected a little more than $80,000. That success prompted United Way to ask HCHD to be a “pacesetter” organization for 2004.

As a pacesetter, HCHD kicked off this year's United Way campaign in greater Houston earlier than its traditional October to January campaign. Employees also had to raise 10 percent more than last year – making the target $88,000.

“It was amazing to watch everyone pull together to achieve our goal,” said Lynn Friedman, Employee Fundraising Coordinator. “What was even more amazing was listening to the stories of why people donated their time and money to help reach our target. So many people shared their stories of how they, a family member or a patient received help from United Way. They wanted to show their gratitude by getting involved and donating.”

This year's campaign united employees in a fun way.

Two major events that profiled our talents were the Aug. 14 HCHD Idol contest and an Oct. 4 softball tournament played on a United Way agency's field. Both events drew support from all over HCHD.

HCHD Idol raised about $3,000, and Idol winner Steve Peardon, emergency center nurse, contributed to the effort by donating his $250 winnings on behalf of Ben Taub Hospital's EC staff.

“The HCHD Idol show received rave reviews from everyone,” said Jannett James, Engineering Coordinator at Ben Taub. “The more fun people have, the more they want to get involved. Then, as they get more involved, they can see how their contributions can make a big difference.”