FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 1/28/2010

Contact: Sarah Kenney 302-573-3751 skenney@uwde.org

UNITED WAY OF DELAWARE REACHES 2009 CAMPAIGN GOAL OF $20.5 MILLION

WILMINGTON, Del. (January 28, 2010) – In less than five months, thousands of Delawareans stepped up to donate $20.5 million to United Way of Delaware, helping the organization achieve its 2009 Campaign goal and ensuring continued support for more than 100 critical nonprofit programs in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties.

“These would be strong campaign results in any year, but they are truly inspiring considering the current economic situation,” says Michelle A. Taylor, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Delaware. “This success is a testament to Delaware’s giving spirit. On behalf of all the Delawareans who will receive help from United Way funded programs this coming year, thank you for your support.”

More than 1,000 companies statewide ran United Way campaigns this year. Campaign funds support more than 100 of the state’s most effective health and human service programs, which address issues including early childhood education, access to health care, financial stability and family and neighborhood strengthening.

"The support United Way of Delaware has offered our organization over the years is incredible," says Paul Calistro, Executive Director of West End Neighborhood House in Wilmington. "With United Way’s continued support and guidance, our agency has been able to expand and strengthen the services we offer the community."

2009 Campaign Co-chairs Diane Gulyas, President of DuPont Performance Polymers and Ted Becker, Managing Partner of Stewart Becker Properties in Lewes spearheaded the campaign statewide, leading the Campaign Cabinet, a group of volunteers who represent a cross-section of the business, government, and academic community.

“This was a challenging year for Delaware,” says Diane Gulyas, “But businesses and individuals stepped up to meet the need of their neighbors. Thank you to everyone who participated in this campaign. Together, we are truly improving lives.”

United Way of Delaware’s mission is to maximize the community’s resources to improve the quality of life for all Delawareans. Instead of waiting to address social problems after they happen, United Way is engaged in a long-term, collaborative strategy to eliminate the root causes of these problems by focusing on the three building blocks to a good life: Education, Income and Health.

For more information, to make a contribution, or to volunteer for United Way of Delaware, please visit www.uwde.org or call (302) 573-3700.