November 2013 - Banana, coconut, or lemon cream? Managers at LifeDesigns are so dedicated to raising awareness for United Way fundraising efforts they will happily have a pie thrown in their face! LifeDesigns, a member agency, hosts many FUNdraising events in support of United Way and they find those are a great way to bring together staff at all levels around a common cause.
Where do the pies come in? One of the most popular fall traditions is the LifeDesigns Penny Wars, with the "winners" receiving a pie in the face at the annual Halloween party.
During Penny Wars, each manager has a collection jar and whoever collects the most pennies “wins.” Coworkers place pennies in the jars of the manager(s) they think should get a pie (in the face). But managers may save themselves or co-workers by donating silver coins or green bills to offset the pennies. This year, nearly 50 managers had penny jars and close to 300 staff and customers joined in the fun by voting with their coins or bills.
At the end of the competition, the three managers with the most pennies are declared the winners. And the bright side to being a winner is he or she can choose who gets to pie you. Often a customer is invited to do the honor as this is yet another great way to join in the fun while strengthening the bond between the community, LifeDesigns, and those who they serve.
LifeDesigns also holds other fundraisers throughout the month of October. During Jeans for a Cause, staff can donate $1 a day to wear jeans at work and a sticker that says "I support United Way." Nearly all staff participate every day, and it was so popular this year they extended the fundraiser by two additional weeks. A Movie Night was hosted where staff donate $5 to enjoy a movie and popcorn together. LifeDesigns also hosts a raffle for staff at all locations who donate to United Way through payroll deduction. Thanks to the LifeDesigns team for supporting United Way and creating a better tomorrow with such enthusiasm and creativity!
