Dearborn Kicks-Off Annual United Way Fundraising Drive

Editor's note: This story was submitted by the city of Dearborn.

City of Dearborn employees have a long tradition to contributing to United Way of Southeastern Michigan, and the kickoff to the annual fundraising campaign took place on Sept. 23 in front of City Hall.

During the traditional torch lighting ceremony, Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. was assisted by MiMi Ghulais, 11, a fifth grade student at Snow Elementary School.

MiMi and her family, some of whom cheered her on during the ceremony, have benefitted from the generosity of United Way donors.

The torch will remain on display in front of City Hall for about a month as a reminder of United Way, which helps those in need throughout Dearborn and the region, including strengthening families, promoting health and education, working with at-risk youth and boosting communities.

The 2013 community giving campaign theme is “Invest in Our Kids.”

“United Way has received significant financial support from the employees of the city of Dearborn through the years,” said Katelyn Haskin, community account manager for United Way of Southeastern Michigan. “United, we can obtain our goal to be a driving force in making Greater Detroit a top five place to live and work by the year 2030."