Making a difference from Belle Chasse to Venice
United Way of Southeast Louisiana is proud to announce that businessman Michael M. Bush has agreed to serve as United Way’s 2015 Campaign Chair in Plaquemines Parish. Bush is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mississippi River Bank, and also serves on the board of the bank.
Michael Williamson, President and CEO of United Way of Southeast Louisiana, says “Mike Bush is a noted civic leader, and like United Way, works to improve lives and communities. When nonprofits, business, government and individuals work together we can create a climate of change so children succeed in school, people are healthy and productive, and families are financially stable.”
Bush has been a strong United Way advocate. Mississippi River Bank was a sponsor of United Way’s 3rd Annual Plaquemines Jambalaya Cook-off earlier this year. That event raised more than $17,000 for Plaquemines Community C.A.R.E. Centers and Plaquemines Parish YMCAs which are United Way Community Impact Partner Agencies. Bush also chaired the Plaquemines Legacy Campaign, in conjunction with United Way, to build Community Centers and establish YMCA programs following Hurricane Katrina.
“I believe in United Way because you’re investing in the future of our people and our parish,” says Bush. “United Way has been here for us through hurricanes, the BP Oil Spill and more. It funds 113 programs for your children to your grandparents across our seven-parish region. United Way makes us all stronger. And, a stronger community equals a stronger workforce and success for our businesses.”
“A United Way workplace campaign increases company presence and morale. For more than five years we’ve had 100% giving participation at Mississippi River Bank and our employees have been steadily increasing their total contributions every year,” says Bush.
“United Way’s simple and straightforward payroll deduction process makes it easy for individuals to make
a significant contribution, while not hurting their wallets. Even small gifts, when multiplied and combined with others, can create a huge impact. Plus, donations to United Way are tax deductible, “adds Bush.
“This year’s United Way campaign theme is ‘What this place needs’. And, I’ll tell you,” says Bush, “What this place needs”—is YOU—your colleagues, employees, vendors, clients and friends! Please consider running a United Way campaign within your organization. Please encourage your employees to support United Way by donating, volunteering or advocating on behalf of those in need.”
Williamson says “United Way of Southeast Louisiana is investing in solutions to community problems. Many of our social issues have the same root cause - poverty. We held a total of 63 listening sessions in Plaquemines, Jefferson, Orleans, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington Parishes and poverty was identified as United Way's 'Big Issue' going forward. We want leaders like Mike Bush to join us in developing strategies to educate and empower people to help lift themselves out of poverty. We can create a stronger, healthier community.
For more information about running a workplace campaign or making a gift to United Way, please contact United Way Plaquemines Parish Resource Development Director Julie Thibodaux JulieT@unitedwaysela.org 504-827-6867.