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United Way of Rockland receives $ 1 million plus in donations

By HEMA EASLEY
THE JOURNAL NEWS

(Original publication: June 15, 2007)
SUFFERN - The United Way of Rockland has received more than $1 million in cash donations from corporations, businesses and individuals in the current campaign year.

Naomi L. Adler, the president and chief executive officer of the Nyack-based nonprofit made the announcement at the "You're The Top!" recognition breakfast at Good Samaritan Hospital yesterday.

United Way's campaign year runs from July 1 to June 30.

Cash contributions totaled $1,025,000, but could grow, Adler said. Last year's contributions were $1 million.

"People are participating at a much higher level," Adler said. "We are very proud. We couldn't do this work without their help. The needs in Rockland have exploded."

United Way of Rockland helps fund 28 programs with 23 human-services agencies that care for children, families, seniors, the sick, people with disabilities and people in crisis.

For the 10th straight year, Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc. was the highest donor with a total of $253,204. The total includes contributions from employees as well as a shareholder match.

"The United Way symbolizes promise and hope for everyone," said Jim O'Brien, vice president of customer services at O&R, as he received the "You're The Top" award on behalf of his company. "Much of the spirit we all share here today is because of the United Way organization and all that it does to help people."

In addition to cash donations, United Way of Rockland received about $300,000 in gifts-in-kind, which includes furniture, artwork, gift certificates, clothing, baseball tickets and holiday packages. Some of the items were raffled off at yesterday's breakfast.

Scott Salmon, 25, who has cerebral palsy and has been receiving services from Jawonio, was at the breakfast to thank United Way of Rockland and corporate donors who contribute to the nonprofit. Jawonio received $6,500 from United Way of Rockland last year for its Out and About program, which provides for recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.

Salmon has received occupational, physical and speech therapy from Jawonio since he was 7 months old. He has completed undergraduate studies from Edinboro University in Edinboro, Pa., and is now studying for a masters in social work at New York University.

"Jawonio has helped me meet multiple goals in my life," Salmon said. "That is why your contributions are vital, especially in light of the multiple cuts there have been."

John and Catherine McMahon, Donald and Donna Riley, and Ivan and Phyllis Seidenberg were three couples recognized for contributing more than $10,000 to United Way of Rockland.

The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp. was recognized for having the highest percentage increase in donations, Costco for having the top retail company campaign and Meals on Wheels for having the top fundraising campaign among nonprofits.

Reach Hema Easley at heasley@lohud.com or 845-578-2442.

Naomi L. Adler, Esq.
President & CEO, United Way of Rockland County
135 Main Street, 2nd Floor, M & T Bank
Nyack, NY 10960
845-358-UWAY

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