You Can Help Less Fortunate by 'Leading the Way'

Another fall term has begun, and that also means that the 2010 Leading the Way giving campaign is about to get under way. This year's campaign, led by the CNM Foundation and committee chairs Luis Campos, executive director of the Physical Plant, and Xeturah Woodley, associate vice president of Academic Affairs, will have its official kickoff celebration at the CNM Convocation on September 17.

The Leading the Way charitable effort allows CNM employees to make a tax-deductible donation to the charity of their choice through United Way of Central New Mexico.

All employees who sign up to give at least $24 ($1 per paycheck) will receive a CNM sunshade for their vehicle. Employees who register during the Convocation kickoff will be entered in a raffle to win a special prize.

A little goes a long way with the Leading the Way campaign. As little as a dollar per pay period can be donated via payroll deduction. Your donation can go to any recognized local or national charity, or CNM Foundation funds or scholarships. CNM Foundation donations are used to help students in need.

"We had great staff participation last year," said Anna Sanchez, director of Development and Alumni Affairs for the Foundation. Last year, 605 employees contributed $105,123 to the Leading the Way effort. One hundred percent of the profits raised through this program go to the charity of choice and are not used for administrative fees.

The Physical Plant Department, led by Luis Campos, has already "led the way" and made their pledges for this year, which totals more than $12,000. The goal for this year is to have 50 percent employee participation. So make this your year to Lead the Way!

Top five reasons to Lead the Way:

1. Leading the Way helps people from all walks of life.
2. Giving helps to build community.
3. Donations are tax deductible.
4. You can make a donation to any charity of your choice.
5. You can make a difference.

For more information, call the CNM Foundation at ext. 4685.