Representatives from more than 30 area businesses joined together Tuesday morning to start the United Way of Central Missouri's Pacesetter campaign, which raised 48 percent of the organization's total funds last year.
Pacesetters are businesses in Mid-Missouri committed to leading the charge for the first portion of the campaign through internal fundraisers. Last year, these businesses raised more than $870,000 of the more than $1.84 million raised for the local United Way.
The 2016 campaign goal is $1.825 million.
United Way staff provided fundraising strategies for Pacesetters during the annual kickoff breakfast, including new ideas to fit the campaign theme: "Rockin' the '80s." Activity ideas included creating awkward family photos, Rubik's Cube competitions, moon-walking contests and more.
Businesses rely on their employees to donate. They use payroll deductions, the 365-day promotion in which donors give a dollar every day of the year, and fair share pay, allowing employees to contribute 1 percent of their annual salary or the equivalent to one hour of work. Retirees are also sought out as donors, receiving letters from the places they retired.
Mike Downey, United Way board member, said workplace campaign rallies excite employees and encourage them to get involved early on. Enthusiastic company leaders, like chief executive officers, help create the environment for giving, he added.
Fair share giving has the strongest participation at Hawthorn Bank, said Doug Hagenhoff, assistant vice president of the company. He said the giving "flows from the top down," which gives him a "huge sense of pride."
"When you feel fortunate about the opportunities given to you, it makes you want to give back," he said.
GFI Digital matches employee contributions, which are garnered through activities in addition to direct donations. Fitting with last year's reality TV theme, the company, like many others, held a "Survivor" rock-paper-scissors tournament. Connie Seabaugh, GFI's administrative manager, said the company wants to increase its activities in 2016.
"This year we're expanding it a little more so we can get more momentum going and make it a little more fun and interesting early on," Seabaugh said.
Many employees at GFI Digital were motivated to contribute more after participating in the United Way's Days of Caring, a day when community members and business leaders volunteer at the partner agencies. Days of Caring will take place Sept. 8-9.
The Pacesetter campaign ends Aug. 24. The community campaign begins Sept. 1 with a kickoff event, in which the Pacesetter fundraising total will be announced.