LIVE UNITED.This is OUR Community.

United Way of Saginaw County 2011 Annual Report

of Saginaw County

United Way of Saginaw County Staff: Cherrie J. Benchley, President/CEO Marsha Cooley, Vice President Tracy Aldrich, Director of Finance & Administration Kelly Johnson, Director of Marketing Steven Lamb, Labor Liaison Rosemarie Myles, Administrative Assistant - Finance Connie Brown, Administrative Assistant - Campaign Susan Sanford, Payment Specialist Joanie Covert, Homeless Prevention Specialist Kristy Bitterman, AmeriCorps Program Director Henrietta Watson, Community Impact Assistant Veronica Strudgeon, Project HOME Intake Specialist Tara Cobb, AmeriCorps Community Resource Navigator

We are the donors, volunteers and staff who give our hands, our hearts and our time

to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another.

2011 Campaign Cabinet: John Kunitzer, Campaign Chair Jeff Martin, Campaign Vice-Chair Terrie Chronowski, CPA's Ann Curran, Construction Wendy Hicks, Architects/Engineers Leslie Orozco, Media Teresa Pruden, School Corporations Kathy Reis, Architects/Engineers Teresa Santana, Financial Tom Schlecht, Manufacturing M-Z Steve Schlicht, Manufacturing A-L Anthony Taylor, Health Services Keith Wenzel, Insurance Cheryl Zinz, CPA's

Thank you to Thomas Begin for his service as the 2010-12 Board Chair. In addition to his role as Board Chair, Begin has served United Way of Saginaw County in many capacities for more than 15 years. We thank Begin for his leadership and dedication to the community!

"Never lose sight of the fact that everything you do, every moment you allocate for United Way, betters our community. The impact made by United Way helps someone, and that someone could be a complete stranger, a neighbor or someone that you love. It is a huge responsibility and a tremendous honor to be in a position to make a difference of this magnitude in our community." -Thomas Begin

It was a great honor for me to serve as Chair of the United Way of Saginaw County campaign. I was proud to work with the United Way staff, who were very organized, effective and efficient. Our community is fortunate to have such a skilled staff managing the organization. Also, I was grateful for the people and businesses that contributed to the campaign - what a tremendous response we received from this community! Their generous support and commitment made me feel good about United Way and its purpose, and what people are doing. Finally, the organizations that are served by United Way help to fill the needs of this community. So much good is being done. When you add this all up, it is such a rewarding experience. I am thankful that I could be a small part of the campaign. - John Kunitzer, 2011 Campaign Chair

2011 Board of Directors - Executive Committee:

2011 Board of Directors - Members at Large:

* Outgoing Board Member

Sheilda Braddock First Ward Community Center (Agency Representative)

David Butts Independent Financial Advisor

Florinda Causie Community Volunteer

Paul Chaffee Executive Communications Consultant

Rev. Hurley Coleman Greater Coleman Temple Church

Tom Conklin Catholic Family Service (Agency Representative)

Jim Cross Dow Corning Corporation

Jennie Culberson Local 699 Retiree

Stacey Gannon PNC Bank

Martin Gembrowski The Dow Chemical Company Bryan Gilleland Frankenmuth Insurance

George Heilbronn Carpenters Local 706

Bridget Hollingsworth HealthPlus of Michigan

Aaron Howald Hemlock Semiconductor Corp.

Dr. Carlton Jenkins Saginaw Public Schools James Jesselaitis Nexteer Automotive/UAW Local 699

Larry Jones UAW Local 668

Kenneth Kujawa Century 21 Signature Realty Betty L. Nagel Community Volunteer

Jamie Nisidis Braun Kendrick P.L.C.

Eve Perry Steelworkers Local 9899

Teresa Pruden Saginaw Intermediate School District

Dereon Pruitt Nexteer Automotive

Gina Rendon-Wiederhold UAW Local 668/ GM Powertrain

Terry Robinson Hemlock Semiconductor

Teresa Santana Wanigas Credit Union

Thomas Schlecht GM Powertrain

Steve Schlicht UAW Retiree - Local 467

Larry Sims Brookstone LHS, LLC

David Small IBEW Local 557

Herb Spence Spence Brothers

Dr. Richard Syrek Saginaw Intermediate School District

Anthony Taylor Synergy Medical Education Alliance

Dr. Mamie Thorns Saginaw Valley State University

Carrie Travis Covenant HealthCare

James VanTiflin Citizens Bank

Keith Wenzel Chemical Bank

Board Chair Thomas Begin Consumers Energy First Vice Chair Ricardo Resio Rehmann Second Vice Chair/Treasurer Dave Youngstrom Yeo & Yeo Immediate Past Board Chair *Dr. Craig Douglas Carrollton Public Schools

Secretary *Garnet Sherman Gardey Financial Advisors LLC Assistant Treasurer Brian Dixon Yeo & Yeo 2011 Campaign Chair John Kunitzer Yeo & Yeo SCF Liaison Smallwood Holoman, Jr. The Dow Chemical Company Retiree

UW Liaison Barbara A. Russell Community Volunteer Allocations Process Chair Patricia L. Washburn Retiree Joseph Kiss II Bank of America

Joyce Seals Community Volunteer

1st State BankAAA Michigan InsuranceAbbe Insurance Center Inc.Absolute Building MaintenanceAerotekAllen & Marie Nickless MemorialAllied Tool & Machine CompanyAllstate Insurance CompanyAmerican Red Cross Amigo Mobility CenterAndersen CorporationAndrews Hooper & Pavlik P.L.C.AT&T

Assembly & Test Worldwide Auto Owners InsuranceB & P Process Equipment Bank of AmericaBarth FoundationBernthal PackingBest BuyBethel AME ChurchBierlein CompanyBig John Steak & OnionBoice Bird & Sons, Inc.BP Brady's Business SystemsBraun Kendrick P.L.C.Bridgeport School DistrictBronner's CHRISTmas WonderlandBrown & Brown of Central Michigan, Inc. Buena Vista School District Carrollton School DistrictCatholic Diocese of SaginawCatholic Family Service

Catholic WeeklyCentennial TechnologiesCentral Metalizing & MachineChemical Bank

Child & Family ServicesChild Abuse & Neglect CouncilCitizens BankCitizens Bank Wealth ManagementCMI Schneible CompanyConsumers EnergyCovenant HealthCareDavenport UniversityDelta College Delta Door SalesDiesel Truck Sales IncorporatedDome CorporationDornbos Printing ImpressionsDoug Wirt Stone Products LLCDow Corning CorporationDraper Chevrolet - ToyotaDuclos Insurance AgencyDuperon CorporationE.A. Becker & Associates, Inc.Eaton CorporationEli LillyEnergy Innovations, Inc.Family First Credit Union

FedEx ExpressFifth Third BankFirestone Complete Auto Care

First Ward Community CenterFirstbankFood Bank of Eastern MichiganFrankenmuth Credit UnionFrankenmuth InsuranceFrankenmuth School DistrictFreeland Community School DistrictGarber ManagementGardey Financial Advisors LLCGardner Provenzano Schauman & Thomas GE FoundationGeneral Machine ServicesGeneral MotorsGenerations Family Federal Credit UnionGirl Scouts Heart of MichiganGM PowertrainGoodrich Quality TheatersGordon Food ServiceGreat Lakes Bay Regional Convention & Visitors BureauHabitat for HumanityHarvey Randall Wickes FoundationHBI Retail Outlets Health Delivery, Inc.HealthPlus of MichiganHealthSource SaginawHemlock School District Hemlock Semiconductor Corp.Hewlett Packard

Hidden HarvestHoneywell IncorporatedHSBCIBEW Local 557IBM Independent BankIsabella Bank and Trust Jason Richardson Foundation JCPenney

Thank you to all who LIVE UNITED by GIVING through Corporate Gifts or Employee Workplace Campaigns

John E. Green CompanyJohnson Controls Joseph M. Day CompanyJP Morgan Chase BankKeller Williams RealtyKohlsKUKA Assembly & Test CorporationLake Huron Area Council Boy Scouts of America Liberty Mutual GroupLouis R. & Helen E. Schwartz FundLowe's Home ImprovementMacDonald Broadcasting CompanyMacy'sManpower GroupMarshall E. Campbell CompanyMartin Chevrolet SalesMast Foulds & CompanyMcDonald Pontiac Cadillac GMCMcNally-Nimergood CompanyMeadowbrook Incorporated Means Industries Inc.Meijer #213/Birch RunMeijer #42 /Gratiot Rd.Meijer #43/Tittabawassee Rd.MerckMerrill School DistrictMessiah Missionary Baptist ChurchMexican American Council Inc.Michigan Association of United WaysMichigan BloodMichigan Education AssociationMichigan Property Consultants LLCMichigan Sugar CompanyMobile Medical ResponseMonsantoMorleyMurray Painting CompanyNational PatternNationwide Neighborhood HouseNexteer AutomotiveNorthern Sierra CorporationOfficeMaxPanda Promotional ProductsPfizerPlumbers/Steamfitter Local 85PNC Bank Public Libraries of Saginaw

Qualified Staffing ServicesQuality UpholsteryREAD AssociationRehmannRemer Plumbing & Heating Inc.Rifkin Scrap Iron & Metal CompanyRobert E. Stark & Martin H. Stark FoundationRohde Brothers ExcavatingRollin M. Gerstacker FoundationRose Pest Solutions Ryder

Saginaw Asphalt Paving CompanySaginaw Bay UnderwritersSaginaw ClubSaginaw County Chamber of CommerceSaginaw County Community Mental Health AuthoritySaginaw County EmployeesSaginaw FutureSaginaw Intermediate School DistrictSaginaw Machine SystemsSaginaw Medical Federal Credit UnionSaginaw Pattern & MachineSaginaw Public School DistrictSaginaw Township Community SchoolsSaginaw Valley Business Services, Inc.Saginaw Valley State UniversitySam's Club #6663SC Johnson Wax Security Credit UnionSeverance Tool IndustriesSpartan Stores Special Needs Vision ClinicSpence Brothers

Spicer GroupSt. Charles School DistrictSt. Mary's of Michigan

Standard Electric CompanyStan's Hardware Inc.Star of the West Milling CompanySTARSState Employees Charitable CampaignState Farm InsuranceStevens Group IncorporatedSVRC Industries, Inc.Swan Valley School DistrictSynergy Medical Education AllianceTarget TBF GraphicsTeam One Credit UnionThe Boldt CompanyThe Dow Chemical CompanyThe Mayan AgencyThe Wirt-Rivette GroupTri-Star Trust BankUAW Sub Regional OfficeUnderground RailroadUnited Financial Credit UnionUnited Parcel ServiceUnited Steelworkers Local Union 12075United Way of Saginaw CountyUS Sheet MetalValley ElectricValley Lutheran High SchoolVisiting Nurse AssociationWalmart - #2644Walmart - #5097Wanigas Credit Union

Weiss EquipmentWigen Tincknell Meyer & AssociatesWildfire Credit UnionWilliam Kibbe & AssociatesWilliam F. Nelson ElectricWNEM TV 5Wolohan Family FoundationWright-K Technology, Inc.Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Business ConsultantsYeo Family FoundationYMCAYouth Protection Council

Thomas J. Hetherman Campaign Awards

The Hetherman Awards recognize three companies and their employees for excellence in the United Way annual community fundraising

campaign. The awards are a tribute to the late Thomas J. Hetherman, a former United Way of Saginaw County President/CEO who served

our community from 1957 to 1981.

Small Firm Companies - Under 100 employeesMedium Firm Companies - Between 101 and 300 employees

Large Firm Companies - More than 300 Employees

NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR - Frankenmuth Insurance

Frankenmuth Insurance was founded as a mutual aid society, built on a philosophy of 'neighbor helping neighbor.' Today at Frankenmuth Insurance, the promise made to a policyholder is that the company will be 'With you all the way' when unexpected events disrupt your life. Much the same can be said of United Way, which, through its affiliated agencies, is there when the community needs a helping hand. It is because of this that Frankenmuth Insurance is a proud supporter of United Way of Saginaw County.

Perhaps it is this similarity that results in the tremendous support provided to United Way by the nearly 700 employees of Frankenmuth Insurance. In fact, since 1990, the company's employees have contributed more than $1.1 million. The company's annual campaigns have been presented by United Way as models of best practice for other organizations to follow.

"I continue to be proud of what we do as a company to support the United Way, which positively impacts so many people in need," said Chairman, President and CEO of Frankenmuth Insurance, John S. Benson. "As a company, one of our core values is caring. Whether they are supporting efforts on behalf of our policyholders, or supporting United Way, our employees unselfishly give," added Benson.

Each year the campaign team at Frankenmuth Insurance continues to top what they have done in the past. Creating different campaign themes each year not only shows how creative the campaign team is, it also creates a fun atmosphere and brings out camaraderie within the office. Campaign themes in the past have included: Olympics, Frankenmuth Idol and game shows, to name a few.

Turning the United Way campaign into a fun time of year that employees get excited about is just one of the many ways Frankenmuth Insurance supports their community and will continue for years to come. Past “large firm” recipients include: Nexteer Automotive - Covenant HealthCare - Qualified Staffing Services - Hemlock Semiconductor Corp.

100% COMMITTED - Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Business Consultants Community service is more than a part of Yeo & Yeo's core values, it is a

long-standing part of their culture too. "United Way is the community's

hand reaching out to create opportunity for all," said Yeo & Yeo President/CEO, John Kunitzer.

The 2011 campaign was special to Yeo & Yeo for many reasons: they tested and initiated United Way's online contributions system, they served as a pacesetter organization and John Kunitzer served

as the chairman of the 2011 campaign. Throughout the campaign, Kunitzer reminded his employees and the community at large that 'our community is only as strong as our commitment to it'. Clearly the staff agreed with Kunitzer's message as all 104 employees stepped up and made a pledge to United Way, proving that Yeo & Yeo is 100% committed to our community. Employees celebrated the campaign success with a picnic where principal owners provided, grilled and served lunch.

Yeo & Yeo believes that United Way is essential to the strength of our community because it fulfills social, economic and charitable needs. More importantly, the firm's employees know firsthand that United Way has checks and balances to ensure that the dollars are spent wisely. In addition to their financial support, employees are quick to volunteer to help assess the United Way programs, serving with a group of more than 50 volunteers on the Allocation Panels.

"For years, the community we serve has given Yeo & Yeo their trust and business. The best way to say 'thank you' is to share our knowledge and expertise to help create prosperity for all," said Kunitzer.

Past “medium firm” recipients include: SVRC Industries, Inc. - Spence Brothers - Team One Credit Union - Spence Brothers

PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST - Rehmann

Rehmann's Saginaw associates, as do the rest of the firm's nearly 700 associates, take their community service responsibility very seriously. The first of the firm's core values is, 'Put People First'. It is not just a saying on a plaque; it is one of the ways associates' success is measured.

"You cannot have a strong, viable company without a strong, viable community for it to thrive in," said Ricardo Resio, Rehmann's chief human resource officer. "Our clients are here in the community, we live in the community and that makes it personal to us. We encourage our associates to be involved in the organizations that matter to them," said Resio.

Each year the company tries to do as much as it can for the community. One way that everyone gets involved is through the United Way campaign. Every year Rehmann looks to exceed the previous year's goal. This can be very challenging with all the charity requests made of their associates and in a down economy. However, this past campaign they engaged another CPA firm in a friendly wager to see who could increase their overall percentage of giving. The goal was to increase giving six percent from last year. Thanks in part to this friendly competition, they were able to exceed the goal and proudly raised more than seven percent over last year.

Whether they are giving, advocating or volunteering for the community, Rehmann employees are proud to LIVE UNITED.

Past “small firm” recipients include: Wanigas Credit Union - HealthPlus of Michigan - Centennial Technologies - Saginaw Asphalt Paving Co.

Harry S. Lund Outstanding Volunteer Award

The Lund Award recognizes a volunteer who has served United Way of Saginaw County in various capacities over many years. This year, we are proud to present the award to one of our organization's most passionate advocates, Barbara A. Russell.

When the committee met to discuss potential recipients of the prestigious Lund Award, it quickly became apparent that each of the committee members had something in common. In addition to all committee members having received the Lund Award in the past, each had been recruited personally to serve United Way by Russell. "I remember talking to Barb about a decade ago and her encouraging me to join the board," said Dr. Craig Douglas. "She simply told me 'you'll really like the people and won't find a better cause' and I have been involved since then," added Douglas.

As a lifelong Saginaw resident, Russell has always been passionate about making a positive difference here in our community. "After volunteering my time with the allocations process, I soon realized how much the community organizations depended on United Way and the impact that United Way has on the community," said Russell.

Volunteering was just the start to her involvement with United Way. Russell has served as a chair for the Success by Six program, admissions committee and nominating committee. She has served on the allocations process committee, strategic planning committee and has been a member of the campaign cabinet. Currently Russell serves on the Board of Directors, as a member of the executive committee and as a liaison to the Saginaw Community Foundation. "Not only has Barb been heavily involved with United Way for many years in multiple ways, she works double time for her role as liaison to Saginaw Community Foundation," said Cherrie Benchley, United Way President/CEO. "This role requires her to sit on the Board of Directors and executive committee for both our organization and the Saginaw Community Foundation's," added Benchley.

Russell's commitment to the community does not stop there. She has been involved for the past 19 years with the Saginaw Township Community Schools Board of Education - serving as president this year. She is also the Director of the Michigan Association of School Boards, chairing the governmental relations committee. Russell is a past president of Junior League of Saginaw Valley. She has served on the boards of Saginaw Bay Symphony, Saginaw Art Museum and Child and Family Services. Past Lund Award recipients include: Dr. Craig Douglas - Dave Youngstrom - Gary Shepherd - Randy Raymond

Lloyd J. Yeo Community Involvement Award

The Lloyd J. Yeo Community Involvement Award recognizes a business that exemplifies the United Way best practices of corporate citizenship. This year, the award proudly goes to Spence Brothers. The leadership and employees at Spence Brothers continue to outdo themselves year after year following their corporate vision and showing how they give, advocate and volunteer in the community. An important part of the Spence Brothers corporate vision is to encourage employees to make a real difference by sharing their success with co-workers, families, project partners and the community.

For the past three years, a team from Spence Brothers has worked to raise funds for United Way beyond their own internal pledges. They have supported an annual raffle by soliciting prizes, selling tickets and raising funds. In addition, employees gathered items and staged a "trash to treasure" sale to further aid United Way during an economically challenging campaign year.

"Spence Brothers is one of those fantastic companies that practices what it preaches," said United Way President/CEO, Cherrie Benchley. "The leadership and support that we receive from Herb Spence and his team, along with their creative ideas and can-do attitude are truly inspirational. Spence Brothers' employees show amazing support for our community through giving to the United Way campaign, they are the first to advocate for others and the first to step up and get involved," added Benchley.

Spence Brothers employees can be found working at Riverfront Cleanup Days, constructing ramps for handicapped residents and bowling for the cure, amongst other things. They are longtime members of PRIDE in Saginaw, the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and a strong supporter of education in Saginaw County. Employees participate in the READ program, support summer recreation programs and volunteer their time and talents to improving the school system and making safe, stable and desirable neighborhoods. Their list of service and support for the community is long and truly an example for others to follow.

As a team, Spence Brothers is dedicated to the on-going transformation and rebirth of Saginaw. For the community and the region, the Spence Brothers message is more than a marketing tool. It is a promise kept. Spence Brothers - Building trust since 1893.

Past Lloyd J. Yeo Community Involvement Award recipients include: Hemlock Semiconductor Corp. - Citizens Bank - Wildfire Credit Union - Yeo & Yeo

2012 LIVE UNITED Awards

Volunteers show how they LIVE UNITED every day throughout Saginaw County. The 2012 LIVE UNITED

Award recipients are selfless individuals who join hands and open their hearts; they lend their muscle and find their voice. Not only do they give 110%, they think of WE before ME and when they

reach out a hand to one, they influence the condition of all.

Volunteer

GIVE

Advocate

Great Lakes Bay Regional Youth Leadership Institute, 2012 LIVE UNITED Community Award

Since their inception in 2006, high school students participating in the Great Lakes Bay Regional Youth

Leadership Institute have been instrumental in creating a positive impact in the community. Their leadership, collaboration and dedication to making change have earned the students one of the 2012 LIVE UNITED Community Awards.

These high school students are really the best of the best. Lead by Dr. Mamie

Thorns and peer mentors from Saginaw Valley State University, the students are always looking for opportunities to collaborate efforts with United Way

and many of our partner agencies.

In 2007, the students became involved with our Holiday Wish List program and have continued since then. Together the group adopts families and then divides into smaller groups to help fill the needs. Students raise funds and in-kind donations from their local communities to purchase gifts for their adopted families. The entire group comes back together in December for the big wrapping party. After all the gifts are wrapped, the students, mentors and SVSU staff personally deliver the gifts to the families.

Another major program that the leadership students helped with was the Imagination Library program, which provides one free book each month to children enrolled in the program. Accepting a challenge that was given to them by the Tri-City Links, students partnered with the Links group and United Way with a goal of enrolling 300 children throughout the county into the program.

Students worked tirelessly as they educated their families, friends and community members about the program, how it benefited the community and why children (ages birth to 5) should be signed up for the program. From standing outside grocery stores, to organizing advertising campaigns, to advocating at local nonprofits, the students did everything they could to exceed their goal. Their hard work paid off and an additional 300 children are now receiving the benefits of their efforts.

"What these students continually do for Wish List each year and what they have done to help promote the Imagination Library program is outstanding," said United Way Vice President, Marsha Cooley. "Even though the group of students changes each year, the leadership and drive that they bring to our community is a great example for others to follow. These students truly LIVE UNITED," added Cooley.

Keith Wenzel, 2012 LIVE UNITED Community Award

One of the 2012 LIVE UNITED Community Award recipients is long-time volunteer and community advocate, Keith Wenzel. Employed with Chemical Bank for the past 20 years, Wenzel currently works as an Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager. He has worked in Saginaw, Midland and Bay Counties and no matter where he is, Wenzel is always leaving a positive impact.

"When we started thinking about the LIVE UNITED Award, we thought about all the

different ways someone could be involved in the community through our organization,"

said Kelly Johnson, United Way director of marketing. "Keith's name was one that popped up with almost every opportunity we mentioned," added Johnson.

Wenzel has been involved with United Way on many levels, for many years. He started volunteering with United Way as a "loaned executive" during the 1996 campaign. Sixteen years later, Wenzel still remains involved with the United Way campaign and serves on the campaign cabinet. Going above and beyond, Wenzel not only helps raise funds for United Way, he also volunteers with the allocations process, which determines how funding is distributed, and even served as a panel chair during the last process. Wenzel serves on the United Way Board of Directors and on the finance, strategic planning and VITA committees. "Keith is one of those quiet leaders that is always willing to step up and lend a helping hand," said United Way President/CEO, Cherrie Benchley.

In addition to his service through United Way, Wenzel is actively involved in many other community activities. Wenzel is an SVSU Alumni Association board member, past president and current board member for the Rotary Club of Saginaw Sunrise. He serves as treasurer for the North Saginaw Township Little League and Bethany Lutheran Church, is active with the Saginaw Township Business Association program committee and Saginaw Career Complex advisory committee, and volunteers as a Junior Achievement classroom consultant. It is obvious that Wenzel's commitment to the community and dedication to United Way make him more than worthy of this award.

Eve Perry, 2012 LIVE UNITED Labor Award

A great example of someone who truly LIVES UNITED and does remarkable things for our labor community is the 2012 LIVE UNITED Labor Award recipient, Eve Perry. Eve is employed by St. Mary's of Michigan and serves as president of the United Steel Workers Local 9899. Those that know Perry, know that she is someone you will always see throughout the community either proudly wearing her LIVE UNITED t-shirt or advocating to her friends and family about the importance of giving back. Currently, Perry serves on the United Way Board of Directors, as President of the Saginaw County Veterans Memorial Plaza, Finance Chair for the Saginaw Democratic Party and is a member of the Coalition of Labor Union Women. She is one of the first people to go the extra mile, especially when it comes to giving, advocating or volunteering for United Way or the labor community.Nominated by her fellow labor brothers and sisters, they felt that Perry was most deserving of this award because of her drive and commitment to her community and her union. "Eve's spirit and dedication gives us all the drive to do our jobs a little bit better," said Steve Schlicht, UAW Retiree - Local 467. "No matter what the task is, large or small, Eve is quick to volunteer and will always help us rally volunteers, too," added United Way Labor Liaison, Steven Lamb. When asked why she supports United Way, Perry said, "I support United Way for many reasons. The fact that the organization has been a major part of our community for more than 90 years is absolutely incredible. I also appreciate the fact that when you give to United Way, you know that your donation is going to have the most impact and make our community a better place to work and live."

2011 Community Impact Programs and Accomplishments United Way facilitates community partnerships, administers grants and implements

programs designed to create impact in OUR community.

Project HOME (Household Occupancy Maintained Efficiently)Low-income residents in Saginaw County who are currently renting their homes and need emergency assistance with utility shut-offs and evictions can contact Project HOME for assistance. The goal of this program is to provide short term emergency assistance to prevent homelessness and quickly re-house those individuals who have become homeless. Project HOME provides on-going case management for customers by teaching budgeting and life skills that will allow them to remain self-sufficient. To date, the program has received more than 22,400 phone calls and provided emergency homelessness prevention assistance for more than 1,400 families. More than 180 families have received rapid re-housing emergency assistance. "We are proud of our excellent collaborative relationship with United Way," said Odail Thorns, City of Saginaw director of development. "We (the City) jointly achieved our mark of excellence as we administered Project HOME in our community. Through this 1.3 million dollar initiative, hope has been brought to so many homeless individuals and families in our community," said Thorns. Since the program started in November of 2009, Project HOME has been one of the best resources for individuals who might not otherwise be eligible for services at other agencies. "A single mother of two was living in a homeless shelter after losing her home due to the expenses of a custody battle. Project HOME was able to provide the first month's rent and security deposit to get her back into her own home. Shortly thereafter, she was able to gain employment, her custody issue was resolved and she now has permanent housing in Saginaw County where she lives with her two children." - Project HOME Caseworker

Best Practices Nonprofit InstituteWhat do more than 100 nonprofit leaders from the Great Lakes Bay Region have in common? They have all graduated from the Best Practices for Nonprofits certificate program at Saginaw Valley State University. Focused on informing nonprofit leaders about administrative excellence, the course connects students with instructors who have experience in the field as well as in the classroom. "In Saginaw we are fortunate to have a large number of agencies and programs that respond to the community's needs," said Hugo E. "Ted" Braun. "In order to be successful, it is essential that these nonprofits operate effectively and efficiently by adopting 'best practices'," added Braun.

The Institute was established in 2007 by United Way, is supported by the H.R. Wickes Foundation and facilitated through Saginaw Valley State University. In 2011, nineteen nonprofit leaders graduated from the institute. To date, 54 leaders have graduated and started implementing the 'best practices' they learned at each of their organizations. "This workshop was an excellent investment of my time," said Mary Ellen Johnson, 2011 graduate. "Having this opportunity to learn from various leaders in the field was a very valuable opportunity," added Johnson.

Imagination LibraryChildren, ages birth to five, can receive one free, age appropriate book each month until their fifth birthday through the Imagination Library program. The program is income neutral and available to all children under 5 in Saginaw County. Through this unique literacy program, the children are receiving the tools needed to build a strong foundation to achieve their dreams.The program began in late 2009 and was a pilot program in the Merrill, Hemlock and Buena Vista school districts. In March of 2011, the program became available county-wide. Currently more than 1,000 childrenare enrolled in the program.

"My daughter, Daytona, receives books from the Imagination Library program. She loves checking the mail to see if one is in there. Yesterday, when we pulled into the driveway, she noticed the top of the mailbox was open and just knew there was a book waiting for her. I read it to her about 20 times last night. It is hard to tell who is more excited - my daughter or I. She was so excited to get a new book, I was so excited because I didn't have to go out and buy the new book." - Imagination Library Parent

Corporate Volunteer ManagerThe Dow Chemical Company placed a Corporate Volunteer Manager (CVM) at each of the three United Ways in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Each CVM was responsible for working with nonprofit agencies to connect Dow Chemical employees with volunteer opportunities and community projects large and small.

While the project for READ Association seemed small, it created a highly functional outcome. Volunteers came together to build book cases for the READ office so that books would no longer need to be stored in boxes and volunteers would no longer have to spend time sorting through boxes to find the right book. The new shelves allowed the stock of children's books to be easily displayed for quick access.A larger scaled project that the CVM helped organize was the make-over at Deindorfer Woods Park. Dow

Chemical volunteers helped create a new entrance to the park and added swing sets, a pavilion, barbeque grills and even picnic areas. Exercise trails were improved so that the veterans from the nearby Veterans' Hospital can go to the park to use the trails or just relax. The improvements have helped create a whole new sense of community for the neighborhood.

Youth Service DaysEach year United Way along with the Saginaw Community Foundation and other community committee members organize two youth service day events. The Youth Service Days are designed to teach high school students about the importance of leader-ship, teamwork and leaving a positive impact on your community. All Saginaw County high school students are invited to participate in the volunteer event. Once they arrive at the YMCA, students are mixed into different groups, given an introduction about the purpose of the day and then are bused out to various work locations in the community. The volunteers spend their time planting, painting, cleaning up brush, landscaping, assisting with minor repairs and aiding in whatever way they can.Each event has a different theme and focus. During the May Spring Into Service Day event, more than 150 students from 14 high schools along with 61 community volunteers worked at six Emmaus House homes and at Hartley Nature Center. With a theme of "MADD About Seniors" more than 230 high school students from

14 high schools came together and volunteered with more than 30 community volunteers at seven senior homes during the October Make A Difference Day event. No matter what the theme, focus or weather is - one thing remains the same, the students have a great time helping their community. "My favorite part was meeting new people, trying new things and helping others," said one student from Hemlock High school.

Volunteer START (Students Towards A Responsible Tomorrow)In order to ensure future leaders in our community, United Way works with high school students through Volunteer START grants to help teach the significance of volunteerism and giving back. Since 2005, students have been able to apply for grants that will leave a positive impact on Saginaw County. The students must collaborate with a nonprofit organization and create a project that benefits the community.During the 2010/11 school year, seven student groups created and implemented 9 meaningful community service projects. More than 1,600 people contributed to the program. Through a partnership with the H.R. Wickes Foundation, the students were able to apply for a total of $11,900 in grant money to help fund their projects. Year after year, the projects the high school students and their leaders come up with, and the impact the program has on everyone involved are truly inspirational. "This whole activity got me involved more and showed me what it means to have a passion for helping the community," said a Chesaning High School student.

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program Free tax preparation is available to Saginaw County residents who cannot afford to have their taxes prepared for them thanks to the VITA program and amazing community volunteers. Last year, 63 dedicated volunteers were able to assist more than 2,800 taxpayers. In total, the volunteers gave more than 3,300 hours of their time to help prepare 5,296 tax returns. These outstanding efforts resulted in more than $3.1 million brought back to our community.

In addition to the statistical accomplishments the program achieved in 2011, we were also able to focus on expanding the program for 2012 as well as increase our financial education efforts. In 2011, we were able to pilot a site at Rauchholz Memorial Library in Hemlock. This added a new location to the VITA map as well as prepared us for an official site to be held there in the future. We were also able to work with students at Freeland High School to help train and prepare them so they could host a site in 2012. Not only did this add another new location to the VITA map, it also allowed us to be one of only two sites in the state of Michigan working with high school students. We received grants from Bank of America, the IRS and the Walmart Foundation. Also, thanks to an opportunity through the Michigan Association of United Ways, we were able to add an AmeriCorps Community Resource Navigator position to help us focus more on financial education.

AmeriCorps - Saginaw Substance Abuse Prevention Program

One of United Way's newest programs, the AmeriCorps Saginaw Substance Abuse Prevention program is designed to reach Saginaw County youth through school programs, afterschool activities and camps in hope of reducing alcohol, tobacco and other drug use and abuse. Currently, 24

AmeriCorps members are serving at five sites throughout the community - CAN Council, Lake Huron Area Council Boy Scouts of America, United Way, YMCA and Youth Protection Council.

Not only did the program successfully complete its first year in 2011, there were many other major accomplishments. More than 11,600 Saginaw youth attended programs developed to reduce alcohol, tobacco and other drug use and abuse. In addition, more than 300 parents were taught how to make healthier choices while their children learned about the dangers of substance abuse.

The collaboration between the agencies involved has added strength, reach and value to each of their agencies and programs. AmeriCorps members learn teamwork, communication, responsibility and other essential life skills. Youth in our community receive information that will hopefully translate into the reduced use of alcohol tobacco and other drugs. This is the only AmeriCorps program in the nation that specifically addresses substance abuse prevention with a documented environmental prevention component.

Holiday Wish ListThe Holiday Wish List program has been helping families in our community have a brighter holiday season since 1985. Thanks to generous community donations totaling more than $86,000, more than 320 families and individuals were able to receive assistance during the 2011 holiday season.

Each year community donors choose to step up and make a difference in the lives of others. The following is just one of the many success stories that we received. "My husband and I took close to two cords of wood to Mr. & Mrs. Smith on December 10. They aren't the family that we had adopted but I noticed that they used wood to heat their home and wanted to share some wood that we had. I am writing to let you know how much they appreciated it and how great of an experience it was for us too. Both Mr. & Mrs. Smith answered their door with their coats on. They couldn't believe it when my husband told them that there was no cost to them since we just wanted to do something nice. My husband even gave Mr. Smith our phone number so that he could call us

when they needed more wood and we could bring them more. Both Mr. & Mrs. Smith smiled ear to ear and were absolutely thrilled. My brother-in-law had never done this before and was quite skeptical in the beginning. After he helped deliver he couldn't believe how much the Smiths really needed and appreciated the wood. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone involved in the program. It is nice to see people making a difference locally."

Project IndependenceFor the past six years, Project Independence has helped to mobilize those in need in Saginaw County. United Way hosts a blitz build every September in which mobility ramps are assembled throughout the community. This program would not be possible without the support from union volunteers and Nexteer engineers who provide free labor and graciously help to construct and install mobility ramps.In 2011, more than 150 volunteers came together to provide 10 mobility ramps to

community members. To date, more than 60 mobility ramps have been built in Saginaw County.Not only does this program provide a service to those seeking mobility assistance, it gives the families a part of their independence back. "We continue to do this program each year because of families like the Yax family. Having a mobility ramp installed on his home meant that Tim Yax could bring his wife home for the holidays and for family visits instead of always having to bring everyone to see her in the nursing home. Tim's wife is now able to spend time in her own home with her family." - Steven Lamb, Project Independence coordinator"What I liked best was working with people that I haven't worked with before, as a team, to accomplish something for a family in need." - Project Independence Volunteer

Uniting leadership & resources to create lasting change that will improve

lives in Saginaw County.

Thank you for your continued support!

of Saginaw County

United Way of Saginaw County 100 S. Jefferson Ave., 3rd Fl.

Saginaw, MI 48607Phone: (989) 755-0505 Fax: (989) 755-2158

Website: www.UnitedWaySaginaw.orgTo Volunteer: www.GOvolunteerNOW.org