Last Two Weeks for Hogs United Campaign

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The 2013 Hogs United campaign is still a long way from its goals: raise $150,000 for the United Way of Northwest Arkansas with 15 percent participation by University of Arkansas faculty and staff.

There are two weeks left in the campaign, and so far about $92,500 has been donated, while participation stands at 7 percent.

“Obviously we need more people to participate, and as soon as possible,” said Melissa Harwood-Rom, co-chair of the Hogs United campaign. “The amount of a person’s donation is not that important – no donation is too small. If 15 percent of our faculty and staff make donations we will more than meet the $150,000 mark.”

It’s simple to make a secure online donation at hogsunited.uark.edu.

“The site is safe, secure, fast and easy to navigate,” said Debbie McLoud, campaign coordinator. “It also offers several different ways to make a donation. There’s no real reason not to make a donation today.”

If anyone wants to make a donation to a specific organization, or to a different United Way chapter, that can be done, too. To find out how, or for any other campaign information, contact a campus coordinator. A full list is available on the Hogs United website.

“It’s important to remember that even though Northwest Arkansas has a strong economy and strong job picture, compared to other parts of our state and region, there are still many hard working families that are struggling,” said Kathy Deck, Hogs United co-chair. “Last year 100,000 people in our area received services from agencies supported by the United Way. There’s a good chance you know some of them, or even received support yourself. The fact remains, your contribution is needed, and it makes a difference.”

The United Way of Northwest Arkansas agencies with programs covering four basic areas:

• Education: 25 agencies with programs that help pre-school children, older students in the local school systems, and at-risk teenagers.
• Health: 14 agencies with programs that provide families access to health care and offer a safe environment to children and adults in crisis.
• Income: 10 agencies with programs that help people and families find affordable housing and achieve financial stability.
• Safety Net: 17 agencies with programs that help provide basic needs to people caught in a personal crisis or natural disaster.

Ninety-nine percent of all donations stay in Northwest Arkansas, and 86 cents out of every dollar goes to help your neighbors.

The Hogs United campaign ends on Nov. 30.