Greater Ottawa County United Way Celebrates Campaign Success at Celebration Dinner

Success was celebrated among investors and volunteers at Greater Ottawa County United Way’s 2005 Celebration Dinner last night, Thursday, March 3, 2005. One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement that the total dollars raised during this past year’s Community Solutions Campaign exceeded the $2,300,000 goal by raising $2,400,495. Companies and individuals were also recognized for their leadership efforts during campaign and their participation in volunteer activities throughout the year.

“Being able to celebrate exceeding our goal with the economic climate the way it is speaks volumes about the dedication and passion that community members have for helping one another here in Ottawa County,” says Sylvia Geisler, President, Greater Ottawa County United Way. “The fact that we were able to share this announcement with the people who helped make the campaign a success and honor them and what they have accomplished for our community, made the night all that much brighter.”

During the evening’s ceremonies, Chris Cassell, Assistant Vice President of Commercial Lending for Fifth Third Bank was recognized for his leadership dedication as the 2004-05 Community Solutions Campaign Chair. “I might have helped to lead this year’s campaign efforts, but the campaign wouldn’t have been the success that it was without the commitment from area companies and individual volunteers alike,” explains Cassell. United Way was able to continue their Loaned Executive program with “donations” of employees from Bank One, Brilliance Audio, Catholic Social Services, Delphi Automotive/UAW Local 2151, Lakewood, Inc., Macatawa Bank and Primerica . Loaned Executives act as campaign support staff on either a full or part time basis for 11-weeks during campaign.

“What is even more important than the dollar amount that was raised is the fact that services will be able to continue helping kids succeed, strengthening families, empowering the disabled, fostering self-sufficiency, and promoting independence for seniors,” says Geisler. “An individual spoke tonight about the difference everyone in the room had on his family’s life because they cared enough to invest in United Way. He and his wife learned valuable skills that got them back on their feet, reduced their debt and now they are in their own home. The programs that are able to be funded help build skills in individuals that will improve their lives for years to come.”

Companies were recognized at the event in several categories. The Silver and Gold Awards recognized companies for number of investors they had participate in their company campaign. An “Out-of-the-Box Award was given to the companies who have the most creative, fun and interactive campaign.

One of the major awards given was the Cappon & Bertsch Community Builder Award that recognizes the companies who exemplify a year-round partnership with United Way and the community including participation in Day of Caring, United Way’s Community Investment Process and commitment to workplace volunteering. This year’s new Cappon & Bertsch inductees are Center for Women in Transition, Grand Haven Bank and Woodland Realty. This award embodies the commitment made by Isaac Cappon and John Bertsch to rebuild their tannery in Holland after the disastrous fire in 1871. Their actions ensured the rebirth of the community and positive growth of our county.

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious G.W. Haworth Strength of the Community Award to Ed and Nancy Hanenburg for their years of community building through service and philanthropy. The award recognizes the company and/or individual who exemplify United Way’s leadership spirit of volunteering, philanthropy and community problem-solving. The Hanenburg’s work over the last 20 plus years with agriculture, United Way, community foundations and other local organizations like the Children’s Advocacy Center has helped to strengthen Ottawa County and the lives of residents.

“I have been involved with United Way on the volunteer side for several years now and an investor with the organization even longer,” explains Cassell. “Every year I am more impressed with our community and how much passion everyone has to help one another and continue making Ottawa County and all of the communities an even better place to live. On behalf of Greater Ottawa County United Way, thank you to everyone who has invested with United Way and invested in what matters—improving lives right here at home.”

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