On Thursday, the United Way of La Porte County held a Business After Hours Event at the Great Hall of the James B. Dworkin Student Services and Activities complex on the North Central Campus of Purdue University Northwest in Westville. The evening’s event brought together the Chambers of Commerce from La Porte, Michigan City, and Westville in a relaxed setting to learn about The United Way of La Porte County.
“We needed to get people together to hear the message, and we thought this event would do the trick. So many people rely on the programs from The United Way fund, and these programs would not exist without the community's support, even a small gift makes a huge difference,” stated Kris Pate, the Executive Director of the United Way of La Porte County.
“This event was the kickoff of our 20th Anniversary of The United Way of La Porte County’s Annual Campaign. 20 years ago, we united the La Porte United Way with the Michigan City United Way to make a joint La Porte County United Way organization. United Way was ultimately created to be the fundraising arm for communities.”
Many leaders within the chapter, as well as volunteers within the community, all work together to allow this organization to perform at its best. Community volunteers help to determine where the help is directed into the community to improve the quality of life within the county, while the leaders make sure that help is continually provided.
“The United Way is so vital to our community. Not everyone is as fortunate as everyone else, and the United Way comes to the rescue to help those people in need,” said Mike Seitz, President of the Greater La Porte County Chamber of Commerce.
Helping to celebrate the coming together of the Greater La Porte, Michigan City and Westville Chambers of Commerce was Bill Gertner from Horizon Bank, who is also a board member of the United Way of La Porte County.
“20 years of living united is absolutely amazing,” said Gertner. “I’m extremely honored to be here tonight not only to represent the United Way as a board member, and this year’s campaign chair, but as a former United Way recipient myself.”
Gertner used one word in describing why the United Way is such an important organization to support: Impact!
“Last year, one in four people in La Porte County received assistance through this organization,” Gertner said. “I know it sounds like a crazy number but when you think about it every fourth person you meet was impacted by this organization in our community. That’s why I give to the United Way of La Porte County, it’s based on impact.”
The United Way also took the opportunity to honor UPS, Running for Prestin, and Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa with awards during the event, as well as Kim Sauers who received this year’s Tree of Life Award.
To learn more about the United Way of La Porte County, visit their website at: http://www.unitedwaylpc.org/