Yazaki's United Way Campaign Kicks Off
October 6, 2014

Our United Way Champions, Vice President, US OEM Chrysler Business Unit Matt Konyn, and Director of Strategic Purchasing Ken Pichla, communicated our goals and plans for the UW campaign, accompanied by YNCA President & CEO Nigel Thompson. United Way of Southeastern Michigan’s Vice President of Corporate Relations Toni Carlo also spoke at the Opening Ceremony, defining UW’s fundraising goals of education, financial stability, and basic needs. Attendees were awarded prizes including a free vacation day and raffle tickets.

“The United Way’s success to date shows what can be accomplished by working together with partners in the non-profit and business communities…and how big an impact your support has on those in need,” said UW Champion, Pichla, “Our team is helping Michigan revitalize. I am honored in knowing that because of you 14,000 children didn’t go hungry this year, and because of you that families in Michigan are getting smarter, healthier, and more independent.”

This morning’s Opening Ceremony was followed by the United Way Carnival, our first fundraiser of the campaign. Carnival games, popcorn, and entertainment from Derby the Clown were provided for an all-out-fun event. All participants at the Opening Ceremony were gifted a ticket to join in and enjoyed fun games including a hole-in-one putt-putt game, a ring toss, and the always fun frog hopper game.

Fundraising events will continue all month and include a Chili Cookoff, the United Way Raffle, and a Halloween Costume Contest hosted by the YNCA Executive Staff.