Each year I am tasked with organizing the campaign to raise funds for United Way, and each year I find myself amazed at the giving nature of the associates at Weingarten Realty.  From the bake sale to the participation in the United Way game day, the associates show their support with enthusiasm.

The company gathered on a warm October afternoon to learn more about United Way, share an enjoyable lunch, and play several team-building games. Lisa Foronda spoke on behalf of Legacy Community Health Services, a full-service, Federally Qualified Health Center and United Way affiliate. Legacy provides primary care, dental care, vision services, family planning, and much more for patients regardless of age, sex, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or ability to pay.

Next, Stanford Alexander, Chairman and former CEO, addressed the crowd giving a memorable message about why he finds it important to give back to our communities. “Our communities shop at our centers every day; it’s important that we show our appreciation by supporting organizations like United Way,” he said.

The message of giving comes from the top down. The Alexander family has been long-time supporters of United Way and they spread their passion throughout the Company. They believe in United Way because it has aided our communities by developing children and youth to their full potential, strengthening families and neighborhoods, helping seniors remain independent and supporting people rebuilding their lives.

Most importantly, we raised more money than our initial goal of $150,000.

The final total raised was $161,178.31. 

We ended the day with some fun games and camaraderie: