UF Community Campaign

J. Bernard Machen, President

The tragedy and devastation left behind by Hurricane Katrina serve as a stark reminder of just how much human beings rely on each other in times of need. We as a nation have opened our hearts to those victims, and the outpouring of assistance is truly heartwarming to witness.

The situation along the Gulf Coast also reminds us that we have people here in our own community who depend on the help of others all year long. One of the most effective ways we here at the University of Florida can help them is through the UF Community Campaign.

The campaign runs Sept. 26 through Oct. 7, and this year’s theme is “Gators Give in a Million Ways,” which reflects the campaign’s goal of raising $1 million. The money is goes to 76 local agencies in Alachua and surrounding counties, including Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Gilchrist, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee and Union.

Those agencies provide assistance with everything from providing health care for low-income residents to providing food and shelter to the homeless and funding research that may someday lead to cures for diseases.

I encourage every UF employee to reach into your hearts and give in order to help your neighbors who need you. When you receive the UFCC pledge card, remember that every donation counts.

The University of Florida has a long history of caring and generosity. Let’s show our neighbors that when the going gets tough, they can count on the Gator Nation to provide a shoulder to lean on.