ECU sets goals for state giving campaign

As it enters its twenty-third year, a goal of $235,000 has been set for East Carolina University’s share of the annual State Employees Combined Campaign.

With roughly 900 community organizations and charities to choose from, the annual fundraiser provides ECU employees an opportunity to donate to causes and programs that matches their beliefs and interests through Oct. 31.

“The combination of our individual efforts makes a big difference for our communities,” ECU Chancellor Steve Ballard said. “ECU has the opportunity, once again, to emphasize leadership and compassion for our neighbors.”

In 2007, ECU employees contributed more than $218,000 to more these causes. This year’s campaign co-chairs are Lathan Turner (East Campus) and Jeff Coghill (West Campus), are seeking nearly an 8 percent increase in giving from last year. UNC campuses statewide raised nearly $2.89 million last year.

The charities range from health-related and service organizations to after school and social programs. Payment is available through payroll deduction, by check, cash, or credit card, or through PayPal.

The SECC is a combined effort that is conducted every fall so that charitable contributions are solicited from state employees only once per year. The resource guide, which can be downloaded from http://www.ncsecc.org provides information on eligible charities.

Each campus department has a designated campaign representative. Collections will continue throughout the fall.