HAMMOND | Lake Area United Way has recognized Purdue University Calumet with its prestigious Community Spirit Award for philanthropy, volunteer efforts and community impact.
The award was presented by LAUW President/CPO Lou Martinez to Chancellor Dr. Thomas L. Keon and Co-Employee Campaign Managers Karen Holland, secretary, and Ila Muller, housing clerk.
“Community partnerships provide our university with an opportunity to engage with the world beyond the campus. These partnerships may take many forms and help not only those with whom we partner, but also faculty, students and staff. We are proud to have received this Community Spirit Award,” said Dr. Keon in accepting the award.
The 2012 campaign at PUC raised $22,600 for LAUW’s campaign, a 25 percent increase over 2011. It also garnered two leadership givers who donated $1,000 or more. The employee participation rate grew to 27 percent, said Martinez.
“Purdue University Calumet is a global leader in higher learning, a community leader and a great United Way partner,” said Martinez. “PUC and its faculty, students and staff have demonstrated time and time again their generosity and volunteer commitment to Northwest Indiana and to United Way’s mission.
“Because of you, 25,000 local youngsters will get a great start in life thanks to early childhood development and after-school education programs funded by United Way. Because of you, we are offering free tax preparation to working, low-income families. Last year, that free tax help resulted in more than $1.2 million in refunds to those who need it the most,” said Martinez.
The campus United Way committee led by Holland and Muller brought excitement and energy to the campaign. Their efforts included a campus kick-off, penny war competitions between student organizations, agency information tables in the student union and library, plant and doughnut sales, an auction of items donated by staff and faculty, and a post-campaign thank you event, as well as participation in United Way’s Day of Caring and a student-led stuffed animal toy drive as part of United Way’s ‘I Need a Hug’ program.
“PUC is the largest giving education institution in our annual campaign,” added Martinez. “We truly appreciate the support. . .and are honored to partner with you in advancing education, income stability and health in this community.
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