11-07-2025 3:35pm

UNITED WAY FOR SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN LAUNCHES $35 MILLION FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Ypsilanti PressLLC Editor

UNITED WAY FOR SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN LAUNCHES $35 MILLION FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Ford leaders Liz Door and Andrew Frick to co-chair effort mobilizing funds and volunteers to confront rising needs across four-county regions.

Detroit, MI — November 6, 2025 — United Way for Southeastern Michigan today announced the launch of its 2025-26 annual fundraising and impact campaign, to raise $35 million and mobilize 45,000 volunteer hours to support families in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties. Ford Motor Company’s Liz Door, Chief Supply Chain Officer, and Andrew Frick, President, Ford Blue and Model e, as co-chairs of the campaign.

“This year, we’re hoping to build on the momentum of our previous campaign, which surpassed its goals thanks to overwhelming community support. The 2024-25 campaign raised more than $36 million and mobilized more than 50,000 volunteer hours, exceeding targets for both," says Dr. Darienne Hudson, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “There is tremendous need in our region, and the generous support of individual donors and community partners makes all of our work at United Way for Southeastern Michigan possible, allowing us to deliver critical support to hundreds of thousands of families."

The campaign kicks off as the need in the region continues to rise. According to the United Way ALICE report, 42% of households in Southeastern Michigan struggle to afford basic necessities like food, housing, and health care. The recent end of temporary financial assistance programs has deepened this crisis, as evidenced by a double-digit spike in calls to United Way’s 24/7 2-1-1 helpline.

“Right now, families are facing mounting financial and societal challenges. Our Board and community partners recognize the obstacles ahead and are committed to the critical work of securing essential resources for our region,” said Dr. Darienne Hudson, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “Having Ford, a company so deeply woven into the fabric of our community, accept the lead of this campaign is a powerful testament to our shared resolve. We are incredibly grateful to Liz, Andrew, and the entire Ford team for their dedication and leadership.”

Luanne Ewald, incoming Chair of the United Way for Southeastern Michigan Board of Directors, emphasized the broader significance of the campaign. "This campaign is a crucial investment in our region's vitality. By coming together to support our neighbors in need, we are not only addressing immediate crises but also building the foundation for a future where every family has the opportunity to thrive. The success of this campaign will echo through our communities for years to come."

United Way brings together individuals, businesses, and community partners to address both immediate needs and long-term solutions. Its work ranges from providing food, shelter, and utility assistance to funding early childhood education, literacy programs, and transportation through Ride United.

“For 75 years, Ford Motor Company and United Way have been steadfast partners, igniting a powerful force for good right here in Southeast Michigan,” says Liz Door, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Ford Motor Company. “Ford is a company rooted in values, and we are committed to championing meaningful progress in our hometown community. Our collective focus is on building a better world and empowering more resilient communities, hand-in-hand.”

"Ford’s roots in southeast Michigan run deep, spanning more than a century. We recognize the pressing needs many families in our community are facing today, and the 'Future Starts Here' campaign is a clear call to action,” said Andrew Frick, president, Ford Blue and Model e. “It's about rallying businesses and individuals to invest in the collective well-being of our region, ensuring that together, we can build a stronger foundation and create opportunities for everyone."

The organization also announced several Board leadership updates. Ed Siaje transitions to Immediate Past Chair, David Parent was elected Vice Chair, Maria Dwyer continues as Secretary, and Jim Robinson was elected Treasurer. The board also welcomed two new members: Renee Tomina of DTE Energy and Dave Maroun of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

The campaign, which officially began on October 1, will run through October 2026.

To participate by giving or advocating, visit UnitedWaySEM.org. To make an impact by volunteering, sign up through United Way’s volunteer portal at UnitedWaySEM.org/volunteer.

About United Way for Southeastern Michigan

United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, works to help households become stable and ensure children have the support they need to thrive. For more than one hundred years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable, and sustainable changes in communities throughout southeast Michigan. United Way works in partnership with donors, agencies, and corporate and municipal partners to help families meet their basic needs and ensure children start school ready to learn and graduate ready for life.

Ashley Orr
Manager, Social Media and Public Relations

3011 W. Grand Blvd. Suite 500, Detroit, MI 48202
Visit us at UnitedWaySEM.org