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Photo by Madison Miller.
Nancy Collat Goedecke
Campaign Chair Nancy Collat Goedecke explains fundraising goals for the United Way of Central Alabama at the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on June 24.
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
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Photo by Madison Miller.
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
When United Way fundraising chair Nancy Collat Goedecke is asked why she gives back, she responds that it is because she has seen firsthand the difference giving can make.
The question is a main focus for this year’s fundraising campaign for United Way of Central Alabama. Goedecke and her team are asking sponsors to help raise awareness for the cause by explaining why they give to United Way, both in-person and through social media with the hashtag #whyigive.
So far, the answers have ranged from enjoying giving back to more personal experiences such as “I give because United Way taught me to read.”
Goedecke explained United Way’s new campaign and more on its impact on the county at the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s Luncheon on June 24. In its 93-year history, United Way of Central Alabama has served five counties in Alabama including Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair and Walker. It is made up of 80 programs and initiatives with a fundraising impact of over $37 million. This year, Goedecke became the first woman in the program’s history to serve as its campaign chair. Outside of United Way, she is also the President of the Board and CEO of Mayer Electric Supply Company, a wholesale-distributor of electrical equipment and supplies.
“I grew up hearing stories from my parents, Patsy and Charles Collat, as they described going door-to-door raising money for the United Way campaign,” Goedecke said. “Sixty years ago, they had a handful of pledge cards and often took donations at the door. At that time, the campaign raised $1,313,000.”
Though fundraising strategies have changed, Goedecke explained that the only thing that hasn’t changed in that time is the need.
“We see it, we read about it, we hear about it on the evening news and some of you may be experiencing it firsthand,” she said.
United Way fundraising campaign
When accepting the role of campaign chair in January, Goedecke wanted to create both realistic and stretch fundraising goals. Last year’s campaign raised $38,255,000. Though 2015 will include the most digital and social media fundraising in the United Way’s history, Goedecke said she still values face-to-face interactions with business owners and potential sponsors. Though United Way’s fundraising goal for this year has not been announced, Goedecke said that she is aiming high.
“Past history will tell us that we will get close to $39 million in our fundraising efforts this year. Our goal must be realistic, but my team has agreed to set a stretch goal as well,” Goedecke said.
This year, Goedecke and her team have made a commitment to meet with 700 business leaders in the area. Though many give to the United Way in order to provide for others, Goedecke pointed out that giving back also helps the economy.
“These individuals aren’t going to the Bahamas. They’re buying groceries and paying their bills,” she said.
The United Way is currently in its summer fundraising season and will announce its official fundraising goal this fall. To donate or for more information, visit uwca.org/givetoday.