United Way Raises $1 Million to Support 3rd Grade Reading

More than $1 million was raised during United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s largest gala to date — the 101^st Anniversary Gala, Celebrating the Power of One.

Dave and Yvette Bing, Bill and Lisa Ford, and Mark and Eileen Petroff welcomed more than 500 guests, and newly appointed United Way President and CEO Dr. Darienne Driver was also present. The rain and cold could not stop the party inside a Detroit City Airport hangar which included live acrobat performances, food stations, strolling hor'doeuvres, dessert, signature drinks, and a mini concert by double Grammy-winner Corinne Bailey Rae.

In addition to the fun, United Way brought guests into their impact work with a one of a kind-simulator, allowing participants to get a glimpse of what it feels like to be unable to read through the lens of a third grader. Proceeds from the event will support United Way’s third grade reading initiative to support children by addressing an alarming statistic: Fewer than half of third-graders are proficient in English, according to The Michigan Department of Education.

Premier sponsors for United Way's 101 Anniversary Gala included Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Magna, Ford, General Motors, and Lear, who were each given an original piece of art crafted from United Way’s iconic torch.