In a year of unprecedented challenges and increased demands, early returns from Valley of the Sun United Way’s 2009 Campaign point to success amongst some key community leaders. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Qwest Communications have both exceeded expectations for their 2009 Campaigns.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
After growing its campaign 10% in 2008, Blue Cross Blue Shield and its employees posted another 8% growth for 2009. Fifty-five percent employee participation, an uncapped dollar-for-dollar match and specific outreach efforts for Tocqueville and Leadership Giving Society prospects helped Blue Cross Blue Shield raise its campaign total to $1,221,488 for 2009. Through these efforts, there are now 211 Leadership donors – up 40 from last year – and 13 Tocqueville Society members.

Qwest Communications
Qwest Communications held more than 70 Valley of the Sun United Way Campaign presentations in 2009, on its way to a 26% increase in employee giving. Partnering with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 7019, Qwest employee participation was up to 44% among field employees, from last year’s 16%. The participation of Qwest state president Jim Campbell was at nearly every meeting, along with a 75-cents-on-the-dollar match from Qwest Foundation, contributed greatly to the Campaign’s success.

Thanks again to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Qwest Communications for their commitment to our community.