MLGW Raises $781,808.33 for United Way

MLGW employees have shown the world that the 2008 United Way campaign theme—-The Power of Love is Giving—-is a way of life rather than a slogan at MLGW. Despite national economic upheaval throughout 2008, which unfortunately was reaching perfect-storm status during the 2008 United Way campaign of Nov. 3-14, 2008, the commitment of MLGW employees to the community with their tough-minded approach to solving problems once again proved the old saying, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” There were rumors floating about that doubted whether MLGW employees would be able to reach the 2008 MLGW/IBEW United Goal of $775,000. MLGW employees have been underestimated before, but the reality of the nature of MLGW employees is that they shine when times are darkest.

MLGW ranks 6th among the top 10 largest companies in the Mid-South in terms of donations to United Way. President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr. is quick to point out that companies that rank higher often include corporate donations in their tally.

“The amount raised in the MLGW/IBEW Local 1288 campaign is solely from employee contributions,” said Collins. “Representatives from management and union run the campaign, but it’s only individual employee contributions that go toward our total.”

The 2008 MLGW/IBEW Local 1288 United Way campaign not only exceeded its fundraising goal, but also posted 513 leadership givers and 260 employees increased their giving levels. The MLGW campaign will likely serve as the model campaign in 2009. Hopefully the giving spirit of MLGW employees will serve as an inspiration to other regional companies during 2009, and this year’s Mid-South United Way campaign will be the most successful in its history. At least that is part of the strategy of the 2009 Mid-South Campaign Chair: MLGW President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr.