United Way kicks off 2020 fundraising campaign.

Lynda and Brian Matson and family.

United Way kicks off 2020 fundraising campaign.

LUDINGTON — United Way of Mason County has kicked off its 2020 fundraising campaign with a few changes due to COVID-19. 

UWMC has added several online features to the campaign to make it more accessible for workplaces and community members. The site features an online pledge form and a text to give platform, in addition to the normal paper pledge forms. 

“We really strived to make this as easy and accessible as possible for everyone. We knew from mid-year on that this would not be a normal campaign, and have worked to be as flexible as possible,” said Lynne Russell, executive director of the United Way of Mason County. 

United Way of Mason County has worked to make each workplace campaign fit whatever each company is comfortable with, Russell said. However, the agency stresses that while each workplace campaign is very important, it still needs support from community members across Mason County. 

“A donation, no matter what size, can make a huge impact and we appreciate every single one. Also remember that 98 cents of every dollar gifted stays right here in Mason County,” said Russell. 

Due to COVID-19, United Way of Mason County made the decision to cancel this year’s Suds on the Shore Craft Beer and Wine Festival. The festival brings in more than a third of its fundraising revenue. Because of this, it is starting the campaign at a loss from normal years. 

“We are seeing a huge increase in need from across the community and we want to be able to meet those needs, both from individuals and agencies. In addition to our non-profit grants that we roll out to agencies from across Mason County, we also directly serve the community with United Way programs such as Mason County Family Link and the Lakeshore Employer Resource Network. Because of the increased need this year, these dollars are so important,” said Russell. 

The 2020 Campaign also welcomes back Brian and Lynda Matson as Campaign Co-Chairs. 

“We are honored to have the Matson’s serve in this capacity. They are extremely passionate about Mason County, and as it did last year, their energy and enthusiasm will result in a very successful campaign,” said Russell. 

“We feel very lucky to call this place our home and it’s important to us to do whatever we can to support our community. We loved serving as co-chairs last year for the United Way of Mason County 2019 Campaign and couldn’t wait to come back to do it again,” said Lynda Matson. 

To give to United Way of Mason County’s campaign, visit www.masoncountyuw.org and click on “Donate” or text LIVEUNITED to 269-89. 

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