GREATER GALLATIN UNITED WAY ANNOUNCES 2013-14 CAMPAIGN CHAIR and CO-CHAIR

Mike Hegel, Business Operations and Budget for Northwestern Energy and board member was recently named Greater Gallatin United Way’s 2013-14 TOGETHER, WE CAN Annual Campaign Chair.  Patricia McKernan Project Manager for Microbion Corporation will Co-Chair with Mike.  Mike and Patricia, along with Marjorie Seymour Greater Gallatin United Way’s Director of Development, will lead annual fundraising efforts across Gallatin, Madison, Meagher and Park counties.

Mike is a board member and long-time supporter of Greater Gallatin United Way.  Mike is serving his second term, but was previously on the board from 1994-2004 and was Treasurer, VP and Board President during those years. “I give my time and money to Greater Gallatin United Way because they operate from values that include excellence, inclusion, innovation, integrity & leadership.   I trust in GGUW’s ability to achieve community goals around education, health, and financial stability.”

“Mike is an incredible asset to our community.  As Campaign Chair, Mike will help us achieve our fundraising goals of $560,000, which will allow us to continue to invest in  prevention and root causes today, resulting in a better tomorrow for our entire community,” said Jane Foster, GGUW Board Chair.  “We appreciate Mike volunteering his time and energy to communicate the current human service needs in our area and how together, we can create a better tomorrow for our community.  The reality is that we all benefit when our neighbors are financially stable, our children are achieving educational milestones and graduating from high school ready for college or career, and become active members in our community.

Pat moved to Bozeman from Seattle Washington in 2000. She has worked in research leadership and management positions in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry for over 25 years and is currently a project manager at Microbion Corporation.  She received a non-profit and fundraising management certificate from the University of Washington and has presented to statewide non-profit fundraising staffs.  “Pat brings amazing leadership qualities and knowledge of the vital role non-profit organizations have in helping to build a strong community,” said Carol Townsend.  “Patricia is volunteering as co-chair for the 2nd year and will bring her expertise and knowledge to make this year’s campaign a success.”

“Improving the lives of our neighbors and ensuring our children are on a path of success are sound investments,” said McKernan.

Foster said it’s always been a dream of Carol Townsend, GGUW CEO and President, who is retiring next year, to surpass $1.5 million in revenues.  “As a tribute to GGUW’s 35th Anniversary and Carol’s 18 years of devoted service, we established a revenue goal of $1.5 million,” said Kyla Stafford, First Vice Chair, noting last year’s revenues were $1.3 million.

“With the great board that we have and the support of many dedicated companies and individuals in our area, I know we can reach this goal.  Reaching this helps us put more dollars into programs and initiatives that strengthen our community ”, Stafford said.

GGUW’s activities, programs and services, along with those of our funded partners are measured by outcomes.   Mike encourages company businesses to hold charitable giving campaigns in their workplaces and for all residents to consider donating to GGUW no matter how small because together, we can connect, engage & inspire people to improve lives and build a better tomorrow.

“We are thankful to our many partners who collectively invest in the achievement of our community goals and fulfillment of our mission, which is mobilizing the caring power of communities,” said Carol.

For information on how to give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.GreaterGallatinUnitedWay.org or call 406.587.2194.

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