In 1942, United Way of Southwest Michigan was officially incorporated as the Twin Cities Community Chest, raising more than $122,000 in its inaugural year.

The Community Chest evolved into Blossomland United Way, which would eventually become United Way of Southwest Michigan.

Seventy-five years later, the nonprofit, which services Berrien and Cass counties, is roughly half-way to eclipsing its historic $4.4 million goal.

“Between the events held and the fun challenges our participating companies have performed this campaign season, we on the cabinet are very encouraged that Southwest Michigan is rising to the challenge to meet our goal,” said Zack East, United Way campaign co-chair. “But now is the critical time of year that individual donations make a big difference in steering us closer to, if not over, the campaign goal. I sincerely hope you’ll join me in upgrading your donation to a leadership level or above.”

For United Way, $4.4 million is more than just a number.  It represents the overwhelming need in Berrien and Cass counties.

Last year, 31 percent of students did not graduate from high school on time.  Through the help of United Way, 93 percent of children maintained or improved early learning skills.

More than 1,000 students were homeless during the 2015-16 school year. United Way helped to provide more than 40,000 nights of shelter to more than 2,000 individuals.

Last year, United Way helped change the lives of nearly 73,000 individuals in Berrien and Cass counties, and logged more than 32,000 volunteer hours equaling more than $764,000 in value. United Way funds were used to leverage an additional $3.2 million, which went back to the local community.

“Eclipsing this goal would mean great impact in southwest Michigan,” said Anna Murphy, United Way of Southwest Michigan’s president. “There is a tremendous amount of need in our community, and these dollars address those needs.  And every dollar we raise stays right here in Berrien and Cass counties.”

To help incentivize this year’s campaign, United Way has partnered with Tyler Automotive to provide a car challenge.

Donors who give $156 (or $3 per week) will be automatically entered into a drawing to win a two-year lease on a sub-compact vehicle from Tyler Automotive. For every additional $100 contributed, donors will receive an additional entry into the drawing.

The winner will be announced in January. Full details and rules are available at uwsm.org/winacar.

United Way of Southwest Michigan will participate in #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that encourages philanthropy and celebrates generosity worldwide, by hosting its second annual online auction entirely on Facebook.

BID UNITED will officially open from United Way’s Facebook page, facebook.com/unitedwayswmich, at 10 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 27 and close at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1.

To bid on an item, simply comment under the photo of the item.  Each item will require a minimum bid, and all bids need to be in increments of $5.

Items range from Whirlpool appliances to local experiences, such as brewing one’s own beer with North Pier Brewing Company or enjoying an overnight stay at The Inn at Harbor Shores.  For more information, visit uwsm.org/bidunited. All proceeds to benefit United Way’s annual campaign.

The #GivingTuesday campaign is held annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving to inspire people to collaborate in improving their local communities.