Meet Campaign Volunteer Melanie Hall - Monday, April 28, 2008

An Interview with Melanie Hall
Fort Wayne Community Schools Director of Public Affairs

How long have you been with Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) and what is your position?

I joined FWCS in June of 2006 as Director of Public Affairs. Previously, I was with Lincoln Financial Group and Superior Essex.

How long have you been involved with United Way’s campaign and what is your role with the campaign?

This was the second year I chaired the campaign for FWCS. I chaired the Superior Essex campaign in 2003 and was a member of the United Way Campaign Cabinet when I was employed there. I also co-chaired the Lincoln campaign in the 1990's.

Give us a little history about the FWCS campaign – has there been increased enthusiasm over the last few years?

The campaign has been co-sponsored by the FWEA the past two years, which has definitely added enthusiasm. We also added prizes this year, which sparked a great deal of interest.

Tell us a little about your campaign and how it operates.

This past year we did our campaign online, which was very well accepted. The United Way (specifically Jamie Garwood) was great to work with as we implemented this new procedure.

What is one event or idea you use at FWCS that other campaign coordinators could use to make their campaigns more successful?

We implemented some competition this year between schools. The schools with the highest percentage of giving were treated to cake served by United Way staff and volunteers. It definitely added some fun and interest in the campaign. I also recommend doing campaigns online.

Why do you personally give to United Way?

I give to many United Way agencies individually, but I also give to United Way because it ensures that I am supporting a broad base of crucial services in our community. I can't think of anything more important.

4/08