UMACC charitable donations top $475,000

Tough times made for generous hearts this year as campus employees donated more than $475,000 to local, regional, national and international charitable organizations through the University of Massachusetts Amherst Community Campaign (UMACC).

“For the 10th consecutive year, UMass Amherst leads all state agencies in dollars contributed,” said Chancellor Robert C. Holub. “Our united giving demonstrates by example the value we place in public service and responsible community participation.”

According to campaign staff, 1,753 campus employees gave a record $475,177.55 to charitable groups, easily eclipsing the goal of $430,000 announced last fall. Among the donors were 398 employees who gave more than $500.

Recognizing the impact of the economic downturn on area residents, campaign donors increased support for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts by nearly $10,000 and the Amherst Survival Center by more than $7,000. Employees also added 37 new charitable organizations to the UMACC agency list.

This year’s campaign was chaired by Esther Terry, interim vice chancellor for Student Affairs and Campus Life, and George Parks, Music professor and director of the Minuteman Marching Band.

Last year, campus employees donated $455,508.43 through the campaign.

May 5, 2009.

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