Finalists in United Way car challenge chosen

Published 8:47 am Wednesday, February 20, 2019

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — Seven finalists are set to compete in the United Way of Southwest Michigan Car Challenge with Tyler Automotive Tuesday, Feb. 19.

To help incentivize last year’s campaign, United Way of Southwest Michigan partnered with Tyler Automotive to provide a Car Challenge. Donors who gave $156 (or $3 per week) for a year were automatically entered into a drawing to be eligible to win a two-year lease on a sub-compact vehicle from Tyler Automotive. The finalist names were drawn and announced Feb. 7 on a Facebook Livestream.

One of those seven finalists will win during an event from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19 at Tyler Automotive, 4356 Red Arrow Highway, Stevensville. The finalists will each be given a random key. One of those keys will start the car. The public is invited to attend.

“With this compelling incentive to contribute at least $3 a week, Tyler helps us create some exciting anticipation in the community,” said Anna Murphy, president of United Way of Southwest Michigan. “It’s a fun event, but most important, Tyler’s support of United Way leads to significant impact.”

A gift of $3 a week provides:

• Thirty-four meals for someone dealing with food insecurity.

• Two months of support to help a young child learn to read.

• One free book for a child every month for five years.

• School supplies for eight kids to start the school year

• Support for two individuals to address their mental health.

• One year of a physical activity/nutrition program for a school-age youth.

United Way of Southwest Michigan officials said they are thankful to all who donated last year for helping to make the campaign a big success and to Tyler Automotive for its generous support.

United Way of Southwest Michigan seeks to fight for health, education and financial stability of every person in every community, according to representatives. They organize harnesses resources from corporate, nonprofit and public partners. They provide immediate assistance to the most vulnerable populations with the goal of addressing the root causes of the community’s longstanding challenges. To learn more, visit uwsm.org.