Employees Encouraged to Support Community through United Way

Employees can support a local animal shelter, a daycare or give to an outreach program that provides veterans with the resources they need to transition back home all through a donation to Duquesne’s annual United Way campaign.

“At Duquesne, we share several of the same goals as the United Way: to serve, to educate and to support our families, neighbors and colleagues, many of whom may depend on a United Way agency,” said Bill Zilcosky, senior director of facilities, services and operations and chair of this year’s campaign.

Zilcosky wants the campus community to understand the breadth of possibilities that can be achieved through a single convenient donation—and that it doesn’t have to be a large one. “A lot of small donations combine to create a big impact,” said Zilcosky. “Our hope is all those donations combine to at least $108,000—this year’s campaign goal.”

The fundraising goal was announced during a Sept. 21 kickoff training event for campaign team members who have volunteered to educate and coordinate donors in their respective departments, schools and offices.

“We really want to stress to the campus community that if someone can’t afford to give much, even a $1 a week contribution can make a big impact in our community,” he said. For instance, $1 a week can help one struggling family get emergency food assistance for six months.”

To mix fun with a good cause and as an added incentive, social gatherings such as the Friday, Oct. 13, DUQtoberfest celebration are being planned. The event will be held exclusively for employees who make an online donation or pledge prior to the event.

Campaign donations through payroll deduction will be accepted through Thursday, Nov. 30, but the campaign will run through Sunday, Dec. 31. Employees who wish to donate or to view upcoming events can do so online.