One of St. Louis’ largest professional and civic groups for African Americans, United Way of Greater St. Louis’ African American – Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society, celebrated the kickoff of United Way’s 2015 annual fundraising campaign on Thursday, August 27 at the newly remodeled Harold and Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz.
For this year’s fundraising campaign, Chapman Society members aim to raise $2.85 million. The 2015 co-chairs are Reuben Shelton, senior counsel at Monsanto Co. and president of the Missouri Bar Association, and D’Anne Shelton.
“It’s an honor for my wife, D’Anne, and I to serve as co-chairs of the Chapman Society again this year,” Reuben Shelton said.
“We understand the far reach and commitment United Way has to helping people all across our region and in the African-American community. We’re proud to once again bring together so many people within our community with the goal of helping people thrive in our region.”
United Way’s overall campaign goal of $74.25 million was announced September 8 at the St. Louis Rams’ 6th annual charity luncheon. The 2015 campaign co-chairs are Suzanne Sitherwood, president and CEO of The Laclede Group, Inc., and Sue McCollum, chairman and CEO of Major Brands Inc.
The Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society is comprised of African Americans who donate $1,000 or more annually to United Way. Last year, the society celebrated its 20th anniversary by raising more than $2.25 million for the campaign. The society is the largest African-American giving initiative of its type in the country among all United Way organizations, as well as the top philanthropic program for African Americans in the area.
More than 220 guests attended the Charmaine Chapman kickoff event, which featured entertainment from local music group Dirty Muggs. Supporters had the opportunity to pledge their financial gift through United Way.
Last year, more than 150,000 people and 2,500 businesses donated to United Way to collectively give more than $73 million. By funding agencies in 16 counties in Missouri and Illinois, United Way “helps one in three people in the region build a foundation for a good quality of life through basic needs, financial stability, education, health and strong communities,” according to the United Way.
The Rams’ charity luncheon announcing the overall campaign goal was attended by more than 400 people and featured remarks from Sitherwood and McCollum.
“St. Louis has a great history of generosity and helping people. And yet, everyone knows someone who is struggling and needs help,” Sitherwood said. “That’s why Sue and I are asking our community to keep supporting United Way so they can help one out of every three people in our region.”
McCollum said the co-chairs has learned a lot about the reach of United Way since committing to lead the campaign.
“Because of United Way, tens of thousands of people in our community will get the critical resources they need including food, shelter, safe havens and much, much more,” McCollum said. “United Way is a vital asset to our community and to all the people in it. When you invest in United Way, you not only help people, you invest in our entire region and in our collective future.”
Individuals may pledge a donation by calling 314-421-0700 or visiting HelpingPeople.org.
“United Way is able to help people across our region because of the generosity of our community,” said Orvin Kimbrough, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “Our organization is proud to stand with the region to help shape the conditions for local people to live their best possible lives.”
For more information on becoming a mentor or joining the Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society, visit www.HelpingPeople.org.
