Lake Area United Way received a "GEM Award" from the Indiana Association of United Ways at the 2017 United Way and Funds 19th Annual Golden Excellence in Media (GEM) Contest held April 13, 2017, at the Indianapolis Marriott North.
There were 83 entries from 24 United Ways/Funds in three divisions. Entries were judged on innovation, accomplishment of purpose, production quality, and measurable success. Lake Area United Way received the GEM Award for their “Imagine the Possibilities Campaign: ALICE Issue Focus.” The campaign explains the plight of struggling working families in Lake County and how Lake Area United Way is shifting its focus and way of doing business to better address the needs of those families. The campaign includes a roadmap for change to help community members better understand the transition as well as explains the organizations implementation framework for the next eight years.
“The ‘Imagine the Possibilities’ piece was borne out of feedback we received from our loyal donors who attended one of six focus groups held last year. Donors sought more clarity around the work we are doing during this time of transition, and this piece was our way of delivering that information in an accessible, easily digestible format. Once again, our success is directly tied to our wonderfully dedicated and enthusiastic donors,” said Lake Area United Way President & CEO Lisa Daugherty.