GRIFFITH – The Lake Area United Way has announced it raised $4,973,000 in its 2012-13 annual campaign, topping its $4.7 million goal. Leaders of the community impact and fundraising organization said it was one of the most successful campaigns in recent years.

The results were announced by 2012 Campaign Chair Aaron McDermott, president of Latitude Commercial Real Estate. John Kennedy, director of business development, American Structurepoint, Inc., served as Campaign Co-Chair.  Both serve on Lake Area United Way’s Board of Trustees.

More than 300 companies ran workplace campaigns and over 7,500 individuals contributed to this year’s campaign.

Contributions are reinvested to support United Way’s work in three key priorities: giving every child an opportunity for a great start on life and keeping youth on track for success; expanding income stability for low-income families; and providing access to critical health services.

LAUW Board Chair Jeremy Miller, regional vice president of Centier Bank, credits McDermott and Kennedy’s youthful energy, creativity and leadership along with the support of hundreds of workplace campaign partners and volunteers for the campaign’s success.

“United Way is a community organization, driven by dedicated community volunteers who understand the importance of United Way’s mission to advance the common good to achieve measurable results and to improve lives,” Miller said.