Dear Penn State Community,

Each year, Penn State employees come together to provide tremendous support to the Centre County United Way and, in doing so, to make a big difference in the lives of many. The United Way supports over 30 non-profits that provide a safety net for families in our region.

This year, I am very honored to serve as the Chair of the Penn State United Way campaign. After serving for many years as a board member of a United Way agency, I have personally seen the profound impact of the United Way and the inspiring commitment of its staff. I am also continuously humbled by Penn State’s rich tradition of giving back to our community. Each year, Penn State employees contribute more than 40 percent of the total United Way dollars raised, providing for the health, education and financial stability of our broader community. We should be proud to be part of such a wonderful cause.

As Penn Staters, when we say "We are," it is more than a statement; it is also a promise to our peers, ourselves, and most importantly, to our communities. It is a commitment that says we do not stand alone, but rather that we see ourselves as part of a larger whole in which we are responsible not only for our own well-being, but also for the well-being of those who stand beside us. This is a sentiment that comes to life in this short video that shares the stories of several Penn Staters who have given back through the United Way:

Please consider filling out your United Way blue form today and dropping it into campus mail. Or, if you would prefer, you can visit http://sites.psu.edu/unitedwaypledge/ and follow the instructions provided at the top of the form.

Please know both how grateful I am for your consideration of supporting the United Way and that your gifts will have a very real impact on the lives of our friends, family, and neighbors.

Dr. Craig D. Weidemann
Chair, Penn State United Way Campaign
Vice President for Outreach and Vice Provost for Online Education