The 2015 United Way Campaign at Rensselaer contributed $91,553 to the United Way of Northeastern New York. United Way works to advance the common good by focusing on basic needs, family support, and financial stability, according to the organization.
Funds were raised through a variety of activities and events, including a community fair and a table at the Rensselaer Benefits Fair. Contributions were received from 361 members of the Rensselaer community, and the average contribution was $243.66.
“The response from the Rensselaer community was amazing again this year; I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished with this campaign,” said Kristy Harnish, associate director of research administration and finance, who served as this year’s campaign coordinator.
Rensselaer groups that donated prizes for the fundraising events included the Administration Division, Department of Athletics, Division of Human Resources, Mueller Center, and the Rensselaer Collegiate Store. In addition, the following area businesses, organizations, and individuals donated prizes: Best Western Plus Franklin Square Inn, Bombers Burrito Bar, Brickhouse, Brown’s Brewing Company, Caprara’s Auto Body, Dunkin’ Donuts, Hilton Garden Inn Troy, Jody Malm, Karavalli’s Indian Restaurant, Lucas Confectionery, Max London’s Restaurant, Minissale’s Wine Cellar Café, Notty Pine, Old Daley Inn, Paolo Lombardi’s Ristorante, Power House Athletics LLC, Prime at Saratoga National, Recovery Sports Grill, T&J Handcrafted Soap, The Century House, The Olde English Pub, The Ruck, Verdile’s Restaurant, The Whistling Kettle Restaurant, Wolff’s Biergarten, Xtreme Body Conditioning, and Yankee Trails World Travel.
The 2015 steering committee chairs were: Charles Carletta, President’s Office; Jacqueline Farmer, Division of the Chief Information Officer; and Tanya Rautine, Office of Research. Nicole Durrick, business administrator for the Lally School of Management, and Kristy Harnish, served as the campaign coordinators.
“This success is really a team effort,” said Nicole Durrick. “Our committee members and volunteers are the individuals who deserve the credit. Their commitment and compassion to this cause is truly heartwarming.”
United Way, a worldwide movement in 41 countries and territories, includes nearly 1,200 local organizations in the United States. It advances the common good by focusing on education, income, and health—“the building blocks for a good quality life.”