Courtesy Riana Bruce-Goodsky

In many ways, Utah County is unique. Our communities are strong and vibrant, and we have a long history of supporting families and children. We are also fortunate to live in an area with a strong tradition of generosity. There are so many people who give generously of their personal resources to help make sure that those in need of some extra help can find it. Last year, United Way of Utah County recognized that there are more ways to support giving, and more ways to express appreciation for donors.

In response, United Way created a new position, Manager of Individual Philanthropy. While this position is usually limited to larger United Ways, the generosity of our community is such that we recognized a need for this position. After doing a great deal of training and strategic planning, we are excited to announce the official launch of our philanthropic efforts with the first annual Philanthropic Recognition Dinner.

This event, which was held on May 10 and hosted by Jeri and Stephen M. R. Covey, was designed to express appreciation for donors who have given $1,000 or more to United Way over the past few years. These donors have had such a powerful impact on our community, particularly on the children in Utah County. In order to demonstrate their impact, speakers representing the South Franklin Community Center and the EveryDay Strong initiative shared stories of how donor generosity has helped local families. Students participating in the South Franklin Community Center music program also gave a piano recital. Long-time donors and volunteers also shared their experiences with United Way and how donors can make a difference for local families.

“United Way is selfless and committed to the true needs of our community,” John Lewis, a long-time United Way supporter, said at the event. He talked about the desire he and his wife had to really serve in our community. They realized they couldn’t do that themselves and needed an agent to help them do that. They feel that that’s where United Way comes in.

Susan Richards, individual philanthropy lead volunteer at United Way, explained how South Franklin Community Center helps neighbors feel a sense of community and improves their education and quality of life. She also addressed the increasing incidence of depression and anxiety among our youth and how EveryDay Strong is showing caring adults how simple actions can make a difference in a child’s life.

Courtesy United Way

Wendy Ulrich, founder of Sixteen Stones Center for Growth, also spoke at the event, building on the principles of United Way’s EveryDay Strong efforts.

“One of the biggest factors in a young person’s life is a person who believes in them,” she said. “Sometimes spending time with one person is what matters most. As adults, we serve the next generation. You can help them as they become adults to then serve the next generation.”

Events similar to the Philanthropic Recognition Dinner will be held regularly as United Way continues to expand its philanthropic presence. For example, in a couple of weeks we will hold a luncheon at one of our community partners. This luncheon, which is designed for leadership givers from BYU, will include a community speaker. These types of events not only demonstrate our appreciation for local leadership donors, but also help donors make connections with each other.

While United Way of Utah County has traditionally focused on corporate giving and payroll deduction, this new emphasis on philanthropy and strengthening the network of generous donors in our community, will help us continue to serve local families for years to come. These leadership donors, like all donors to United Way, can designate their gifts to any nonprofit.

Thanks to our Corporate Cornerstone program, all administrative costs are covered so 100% of donations go to the designated recipient. Donors can combine all of their philanthropic giving and know it will go to its designated recipients at no further cost. By facilitating the donation process, United Way helps donors at all levels find peace of mind knowing that their gift is going directly to the services that need it most.

Courtesy United Way

As philanthropic giving continues to grow in Utah County, the essential services and programs that provide support to local families will be able to continue making a difference for years to come.

For more information about United Way’s philanthropic efforts and how to get involved, please visit unitedwayuc.org.

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