Wow! What an amazing few months for UPAF, as we pushed through a sensational 2013 Campaign. And now that we've reached a successful end, the UPAF team cannot adequately express how thrilled we are with the support received throughout the community. Under the leadership of this year's three Co-Chairs - Chuck Harvey, Gail Lione and Skip Poliner - UPAF surpassed its $11 million record-setting goal by raising $11,005,419. This is more than a 10% increase over last year's goal and almost a 9% increase over total dollars raised in 2012.  

The UPAF Ride for the Arts, sponsored by Miller Lite, also exceeded expectations with more than 7,000 participants and 600 volunteers - despite a dose of cold weather. This year's Honorary Ride Chair was Tom Cardella, president and CEO of Tenth and Blake Beer Company at MillerCoors. Tom dedicated a lot of time and energy throughout the entire day - from sending off riders at the Starting Line, to serving beer at the "tasting table," to presenting the Ride Team of the Year trophy during the Finale.  

And speaking of the Finale...for the first time ever, UPAF hosted its Campaign Finale at the Ride, which included performances by a group of talented kids from Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, First Stage, Danceworks and Milwaukee's Children Choir. The Finale also included several award presentations:

• UPAF Epic Award - Northwestern Mutual (This award is new to the 2013 Campaign, recognizing Exceptional Performance In our 2013 Campaign, and a combination of longstanding past and current support.)
• Robert W. Baird Outstanding Achievement in Workplace Giving Award - Associated Bank
• Ride Team of the Year Trophy - Johnson Control's Sustainable Pedalers
• Mrs. Walter H. Stiemke Award - Carlene Ziegler    

Each UPAF campaign is a team effort, and this year was no exception. I would like to first thank our three dynamic Co-Chairs who - on a daily basis - demonstrated tremendous dedication, patience and enthusiasm to get us to the $11 million goal. UPAF could not have been more fortunate to have this stellar team in charge.

We give a standing ovation for the UPAF Board of Directors and the 2013 Campaign Cabinet for embracing the aggressive goal and assuming the risk without a second thought. Their leadership and motivation to move UPAF forward were vital to our success.

Our impressive Loaned Executives were the face of UPAF in more than 200 workplaces. The growth in workplace dollars this year is due in large part to having experienced individuals delivering the UPAF message and assisting with campaign planning. UPAF thanks the organizations that sponsored this year's Loaned Executives and the corporate sponsors who made their participation possible.  

We also applaud the more than 800 volunteers that helped raise money, organize the Ride, stuff letters, sort materials, etc. With a staff of fewer than 25, UPAF relies heavily on volunteers to pull together all aspects of the campaign.

Most importantly, we extend our deep gratitude to the more than 20,000 individuals, companies and foundations that contributed this year to UPAF. It is inspirational to see firsthand the enthusiasm that exists to ensure we sustain exceptional performing arts in Southeastern Wisconsin.  

Needless to say, it has been an extremely rewarding three months. I would like to again express my thanks - on behalf of the UPAF Board of Directors and UPAF staff - to everyone involved in the 2013 Campaign. We will celebrate throughout the 2013-2014 season by enjoying the depth and breadth of entertainment excellence that is made possible because of generous donors like you.