The $50,000 shave

Mithun Architecture had a great campaign this year in which its employees increased their giving by 25%. Much of that increase is attributed directly to a challenge by principal and shareholder Ron Van der Veen, who pledged to shave his head if the campaign raised a total of $50,000 -- including a $10,000 corporate gift. The company ultimately raised more than $52,000 and Ron made good on his promise. Congratulations to Ron and Mithun for a uniquely inspiring and effective fundraising idea.
Winners honored at Spirit of Caring Celebration

At least 750 community stars walked the red carpet to be honored for their gifts of time, talent and money at United Way of King County's Spirit of Caring Celebration.
Chris Alston, of Foster Pepper PLLC, was named Volunteer of the Year for his commitment to engaging in community through volunteer efforts with United Way of King County. Macy's was recognized with the prestigious Spirit of Puget Sound award for outstanding performance in every aspect of company campaigns and an ongoing commitment to community involvement. Alan Yordy, from PeaceHealth, received the Executive of the Year Award for exceptional level of support for United Way by a top executive.
Congratulations to all the winners of our 2007-2008 Spirit of Caring Awards. These shining examples of generosity, caring and support are improving King County in fundamental lasting ways.
View a complete list of winners >>
View photos from the event >>
View all nominees >>
Special thanks to Accenture, Boeing, Macy's and Puget Sound Energy for their generosity in sponsoring the Spirit of Caring Celebration.
Congratulations Chris Alston, Volunteer of the Year

Chris Alston, United Way of King County's Spirit of Caring Volunteer of the Year award-winner, is a long-time community supporter. He has served on United Way of King County's board of directors, its Youth & Family Impact Council, and its Blue Ribbon Task Force on Emergency Preparedness -- which works to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to critical services in times of crisis.
United Way of King County President/CEO Jon Fine said, "We are proud to present Chris with this Volunteer of the Year Award. He has consistently displayed great leadership and dedication in the community. Chris is a tremendous asset in our work to end homelessness and to prepare children for success in school."
"I am honored to receive this award," said Chris. "It is a pleasure to give back to a community that has given me so much. Sharing my time through United Way is easy and rewarding. I know that it is the most effective way for me to see results and create lasting change in King County."
Congratulations, Chris!
Companies benefit from free Lunch & Learn Series

Studies indicated that employees are more likely to work for, and stay at, organizations that value work-life balance and support the communities in which they live. United Way of King County's FREE Lunch & Learn series offers organizations a way to boost employee morale and engagement through interactive presentations that invite participation and collaboration. Experts share practical, relevant information on a variety of topics, including school readiness, finding the right fit in quality child care, ending homelessness, caring for aging relatives, volunteerism and disaster preparedness.
View available sessions or register.
For questions, contact Lauren Fleming, communications manager, or 206.461.4956.
Workshop offers opportunity to enhance employee volunteer programs
United Way is partnering with The Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship to offer Enhancing Your Employee Volunteer Program to companies throughout the region. This two-day interactive workshop is designed to help corporate practitioners improve their employee volunteer programs to more effectively deliver business and community value.
Wednesday, April 30 and Thursday, May 1
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Alaska Airlines Corporate Training Facility, Seattle.
Registration deadline is Thursday, March 27, 2008.
Save the date
Plan to join us for the United Way of King County Breakfast on June 4, 2008. United Way will report to the community on the progress it's making to create smart solutions that deliver lasting change. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, network with leaders in our community and learn more about how you can make a difference!
View all United Way of King County events >>