United Way's 2011 campaign season has been one of the most active in recent memories.  Here are some of the highlights: 

• In addition to their annual workplace campaign, UPS employees held a rummage sale to raise funds for United Way of SLO County's Community Impact Fund.  A lofty goal was set and UPS employees exceeded their goal by 12%.  The prize was a buzz cut for their General Manager, Richard Cortez.
• Digital West became United Way's latest workplace to establish a Workplace Giving Program.  During an "all hands on deck" meeting with Horace Morana, United Way's Resource Development Coordinator, their team members learned about the local nonprofit programs that United Way supports as well as volunteer opportunities they can participate in.
• The Lucia Mar Unified School District benefits fair was a great success this year.  Superintendent Jim Hogoboom and his staff did a great job putting together this forum for teachers and staff so they can be informed about United Way and the needs in the community.
• IQMS, with their 100% corporate match, is once again one of the top campaigns for United Way of SLO County.  This year their results were up 11% from 2011.
• For the third year in a row United Way representatives from the Tri-Counties made presentations not only to ExxonMobil mainland employees but to employees on all three of their platforms off the coast of Gaviota.
• PG&E held their second annual Campaign for Community Nonprofit Vendor Fair.  United Way, along with several other local nonprofits, were invited to Diablo Canyon Power Plant to give employees an overview of their programs.
• This year's Best Buy campaign kick off meeting coincided with the 10^th anniversary of 9/11.  Best Buy took this opportunity to highlight the 9/11 National Day of Service and encouraged their team members to volunteer during the 2011 campaign.
• Accessories Marketing (AKA Slime) once again exceeded all expectations.  With an amazing 94% employee participation, Illinois Tool Works, Slime's parent company, will be providing a 125% corporate match!  A highlight of this year's campaign was the dunk tank and hamburger feed.

Want to get the employees at your company better connected with the community by offering the benefit of a Workplace Giving Program?  Email or call Horace Morana at (805) 541-1234 today!

As a strategy for raising additional government revenue to reduce the federal deficit, you may have heard about changes to charitable giving tax incentives.  While United Ways recognize the historic challenges facing Congress, as a system we have seen decreases in donations with simultaneous increases in demands for services that United Ways fund and provide.  With help and support from local United Ways, United Way Worldwide's public policy staff work to educate and engage members of Congress, the Administration, and other policymakers about our goals and priorities--and in this case, the dangers of limiting or eliminating the charitable tax deduction.  United Ways have signed a letter to Congress in support of the charitable deduction, and continue to educate and inform our representatives and the public of our concerns.  Read United Way's legislative issue brief to learn more about the charitable deduction.

The AmeriCorps Volunteer Infrastructure Project, or VIP for short, is designed to address the significant challenges faced by California communities due to the economic turndown.  AmeriCorps members are focused on developing volunteer programs, and harnessing the desire to serve to directly impact communities in need.

At United Way we are excited to be joined by Jessica Blum, who is committing 1700 hours to support our mission of improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community.  Jessica works side-by-side with the rest of the UW team to help us identify, support and recognize volunteers.  Be sure to say hello the next time you call or stop by the office!

To learn more about AmeriCorps, visit the Central Coast Volunteer Corps or AmeriCorps websites.

Are you on Facebook?  Like Obispo Wealth Management, and when they reach 250 likes, they will donate $250 to United Way!  Search Facebook for Obispo Wealth Management, and and help them support our community.