United Way Quad Cities Raises $1.3m In One Evening Using Major Gifts Ramp-Up demonstrates how one Local United Way Program hosted a plot twist themed event (don’t miss the video above) that both entertained and inspired the citizens of the Quad Cities. In only 1.5 hours generous supporters gave and pledged an unprecedented amount of funds to the important work of one of Iowa’s most celebrated charitable organizations. Here’s what Angela Snyder, Chief Strategy Officer of UWQC had to share with those who ANSWERED THE CALL!
VISIT HERE TO JOIN US FOR A DEDICATED UNITED WAY MAJOR GIFTS RAMP-UP EVENT
It’s been a months since our Plot Twist event! And, I’m still feeling the positive energy and unlocked potential — from influential and transformative leaders like you who are answering the Call to Rise United.
You did something extraordinary by joining us that night. Your attendance was a vote of confidence in our ambitious movement to put thousands of young people on a path toward economic mobility. We’re just getting started.
Here’s what stuck with me the most:
Education is the key to economic mobility
Our special guest Andre Norman, the “Ambassador of Hope,” captivated the room with his powerful story of resilience and determination. Having turned his life around — from a prison sentence to a Harvard fellowship — he is a living testament to the fact that education can change the trajectory of life, serve as a springboard to different opportunities and expand the possibilities for a successful life. As he said, “educated people make educated choices.” When we unite with compassion and support one another, we can shape a brighter future for the next generation.
Our Quad Cities leaders are building a movement
Those in the room showed up, and so many pledged their support for a bold vision: one that accelerates a post-pandemic recovery for our kids and our economy. Powerful voices like Nate Stoffregen, Executive Director, Morgan Stanley; Brian Wells, Division Sales Manager, John Deere; and Bob Waterman, Of Counsel, Lane & Waterman LLP; each spoke about what moved them to give back to their community. They talked about the future that they see possible when we lead with compassion, resilience and hope.
“In the days that followed, you brought
that number up to $1.3 million” ~ Angela Snyder
Sometimes you don’t know your own potential until someone shows you. That’s what United Way QC President & CEO Rene Gellerman shared from her own personal journey. She talked about her third-grade teacher, Ms. Nesbitt, who took an interest in Rene’s success. She created the “plot twist” that completely reshaped the future Rene thought possible for herself as she nurtured her confidence and challenged her ambitions.
VISIT HERE TO JOIN US FOR A DEDICATED UNITED WAY MAJOR GIFTS RAMP-UP EVENT
And, that’s not too different from what our kids face today. Rene spoke of the challenges that hold kids back from reaching their potential. When we meet the needs of our youngest and foster their abilities, they become critical players in a talented workforce and a thriving community.
To position the Quad Cities on a path for success, we must:
• Ensure every child enters kindergarten ready to thrive and on a path to read by third grade;
• See that all students graduate from high school prepared to succeed in college or career;
• And, maximize our talent pool and empower all Emerging Leaders for good jobs and lives of wise leadership.
That’s what our Call to Rise United campaign is all about. Last week we took a big step toward these ambitious goals. And, if we go all-in to build on the success of what we started, we can flip the story for all QC kids, so they reach their full potential.
An unprecedented start to something bigger
Our guest speaker Andre said it best: “It’s time to invest in our solutions, not manage our problems.” That’s exactly what I witnessed in action during the event.
By the end of the night, caring people raised their hands to commit $1.2 million to invest in solutions over the next three years. And, in the days that followed, more people pledged their support and brought that number to $1.3 million committed. That kind of community support is proof of leadership, and how people are giving back in unprecedented ways — not unlike the video we shared during the event. (Feel free to share it!)
VISIT HERE TO JOIN US FOR A DEDICATED UNITED WAY MAJOR GIFTS RAMP-UP EVENT
I am so glad you joined us. I’m still in awe of the generous spirit that filled the room that night, and has continued to blossom in our community ever since.
Thank you for dedicating a good portion of your night to help make our Plot Twist event exceptional — and, hopefully, the start of something bigger.
Gratefully,
Angela Snyder
Chief Strategy Officer
United Way Quad Cities
852 Middle Road #401 Bettendorf, IA 52722
Phone: (563) 355-4310
Web: https://unitedwayqc.org
Email: angela@unitedwayqc.org
VISIT HERE TO JOIN US FOR A DEDICATED UNITED WAY MAJOR GIFTS RAMP-UP EVENT
