January 19, 2011

TO THE CAMPUS COMMUNITY
 
Dear Friends and Colleagues:
 
Santa Barbara and Goleta experienced several terrible hardships with the fires of 2008/09, but we learned how supportive our community is when we all rallied together to help those who were affected. We are very fortunate to live and work in a city where neighbors are willing to help strangers in the time of crisis. Helping those in need is what our community does best. At UC Santa Barbara, we have the ability to help our community by partnering with United Way of Santa Barbara County. United Way secures funding to agencies that provide services to those in need and those at risk. 
 
Last year, our students, staff, and faculty contributed over $106,000 for the United Way of Santa Barbara County. I would like to thank everyone who participated in the success of last year's drive. This year's United Way campaign kicks off today and runs through February 28, 2011. There are two ways to contribute: by using the traditional paper pledge card, or by pledging online at http://www.ia.ucsb.edu/uw/. As UCSB employees, you can choose to support our local United Way in Santa Barbara, or, for those who reside in Ventura or North County, you can designate funds for your respective communities.
 
Please take time to review the materials provided to you by your department representative. If you have any questions, you may ask your department or division representative, or call Julie Miller in the Office of Public Events at x7382.
 
I am proud of UC Santa Barbara's involvement in our local communities. The annual United Way campaign is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment and compassion for those in need. We can make a difference in the lives of those who need our support. Thank you for the many ways you help our campus reach out to our local communities.
 
Sincerely,
 
Henry T. Yang
Chancellor