September 30, 2005

Supporting a good cause: United Way campaign coming soon

A familiar event will once again take place throughout the hospital later this fall — the annual MGH United Way campaign. The campaign will begin with a kickoff celebration Oct. 25 at 11:30 am under the Bulfinch tent and will run through Nov. 4. Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, and Nancy E. Corbett, senior administrative director for Radiation Oncology (pictured below) — co-chairs of this year's campaign — are committed to making it a resounding success.

After witnessing the destruction of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita during the past month, both Slavin and Corbett felt inspired to do something to help those affected by these tragedies. At the same time, they knew there are people in Massachusetts who also need help. The United Way fills both of these needs, offering support locally to organizations in Massachusetts and nationally to efforts such as the hurricane relief activities.

Slavin, who also is the co-chair of the United Way's health care campaign across eastern Massachusetts, has been a long-time supporter of the United Way. "The hospital has the responsibility to provide the highest quality care to our patients," he says. "I also feel we have a responsibility to our community to help address the myriad of social issues people face. The United Way is a great umbrella organization that allows staff to direct their donations to many different areas."

Corbett, who has served as senior administrative director in her department for a year, decided it was time to reach beyond her role in Radiation Oncology and further contribute to the hospital's broader mission. "I feel blessed that I have been given so many wonderful gifts and opportunities, and I want to do something to give back," she says.

The fundraising goal for this year is $350,000. Both Slavin and Corbett are confident the MGH can achieve this goal and would like to see the overall participation level increase. Last year, 6 percent of employees donated to the campaign. This year, they hope to achieve a participation rate of 8 percent. To meet this goal, Corbett would like to remind the MGH community to take the time before making a decision. "I'd like to see everyone at the hospital take 10 minutes to educate themselves about the United Way of Massachusetts Bay," she says. "I ask that MGHers be informed when deciding whether to give or not. I am confident that many of my fellow MGHers will find the motivation to give, and will discover an effort they can feel proud and enthusiastic about supporting."

Adds Slavin, "I'd like to appeal to the 94 percent of the MGH community who do not currently give to the United Way. This year, please seriously consider giving to this worthy organization."

Upcoming issues of Hotline will have more information about the campaign.