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United Way, Blue Jackets have common goals, coach tells supporters at Greif Kickoff Breakfast (Sep 06, 2007)

More than 110 United Way supporters from companies countywide gathered Sept. 6 at Brookshire Banquet Facility for a campaign kickoff breakfast sponsored by Greif Inc.

Ken Hitchcock, head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets NFL franchise, was keynote speaker, exploring “Common Goals” that unite Blue Jackets players and United Way contributors.

"There is value in every player's contribution," Hitchcock told United Way supporters, who will strive to raise $3.25 million in the 2007mcconnell2 campaign. "When we build the team, and put the team ahead of the individual in every sense, winning will take care of itself," he advised.

John H. McConnell, majority owner, chairman and governor of the Blue Jackets and founder/chairman emeritus of Worthington Industries, was honored at the event for his longstanding leadership contributions to United Way of Delaware County and to United Way of America's Alexis de Tocqueville Society. McConnell is shown at left, reviewing his Leadership Giving award along with Wendy Bradshaw, community development director of the Blue Jackets.

Presenters at the kickoff breakfast included United Way Board Chair Walt Abood, national account manager for Verizon Wireless, who detailed United Way's focus on "what matters" in Delaware County and explained where donors can find results of their contributions to five Impact Areas that focus on improving the lives of children and senior citizens, improving access to affordable housing, improving health, and providing basic needs and emergency services. Campaign chair Mark Bergstedt, associate vice president of human resources at Nationwide, thanked the five Pacesetter companies who have jump-started the campaign with early, exemplary workplace campaigns. They include American Family Insurance, Delaware County Bank, Floyd Browne Group, Oberfield's and WHITTMANHART.

The group viewed the campaign video, "A World of Difference."

The campaign launch will continue Sept. 18 as approximately 130 volunteers employed by Delaware County companies unite to perform service projects at local human service agencies, to see first hand how contributions are used in the community.

To contribute to United Way or learn more about the results of funded programs call 740-369-9618 or e-mail feedback@uwaydelaware.org.