United Way tops 2011 campaign goal by raising $15.2 million

 WICHITA, Kan., Nov. 17, 2011 —United Way of the Plains announced today a total of $15,223,554 raised during the 2011 campaign topping goal of $15,100,000. United Way revealed its fundraising total to a crowd of more than 900 volunteers, company representatives and other supporters during its Campaign Victory Luncheon at Century II Convention Hall.

“This community does care and I’ve seen this over and over during this campaign,” said 2011 Campaign Chair Linda Brantner, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Kansas. “I’ve talked to people that love this community and will do whatever it takes to make it a better place to live.”

Funds will support 87 programs at 35 local nonprofits (in the areas of education, income and health) and will support United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline, Volunteer Center and Give Items of Value Program.

Top gifts reported at the luncheon (including corporate and employee giving):

Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. raised $2,150,000
Hawker Beechcraft Corporation raised $1,100,000
Cessna Aircraft Company raised $1,080,000
Cargill raised $711,839
INTRUST Bank raised $419,658
Boeing Defense, Space & Security raised (partial) $400,000
Bombardier Learjet raised $350,000
Via Christi Health raised $315,130
QuikTrip Corporation – Wichita Division raised $274,604
USD 259 Wichita Public Schools raised $240,583
Koch Industries, Inc. raised $226,418
Westar/IBEW LU1523 raised $217,347
City of Wichita raised $183,374
Davis-Moore Auto Group raised $168,807

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MEDIA CONTACT: Delane Butler, Vice President of Marketing, (316) 267-1321