'Spring It On' reaches its goal of $150,000 for Western New York nonprofits

Nearly 200 agencies participated in 24-hour fundraising initiative 

Western New Yorkers celebrated spring this week by contributing $150,210 to "Spring It On," a 24-hour online fundraising event held from Thursday at 8 am through Friday at 8 am. The fundraiser benefited a diverse group of nearly 200 nonprofit organizations that made their case for support through online and social media channels.

This year's campaign exceeded the $125,000 raised in 2014 and surpassed the $150,000 goal.

The International Institute raised the most donations ($16,006), while the New Life Residential Center raised $13,585. Jericho Road Community Health Center and the Elmwood Village Charter School both raised nearly $3,000 during the fundraising event.

One third of participating organizations were new to the program this year and two-thirds returned after participating last year. The varied group of agencies included arts and cultural, health and human services, environmental, religious and animal protection organizations.  

"Spring It On" is an online giving event created and powered by the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County. It is designed to raise awareness and funds for not-for-profit organizations. The event, now in its third year, invites 501(c) 3 organizations of every type in Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Allegany and Orleans counties to participate.

Participants set their own goal and promote the event and related projects in need of donations through their websites, social media and traditional marketing activity. Individuals were able to make a one-time, secure, online donation to the local not-for-profit agency of their choice through a specially designed website, www.springiton.org.

"Spring It On" was modeled on successful one-day fundraising events in other communities, including Rochester's "ROC The Day."

Michael Weiner, president and CEO of United Way of Buffalo & Erie County, said, "Our success with 'Spring It On' once again demonstrates the generosity of the Western New York community. In addition (to) raising significant funds for a diverse group of organizations, we know that this is a tremendous, cost-effective tool for organizations of every size to be able to promote their mission to a growing online community."

The United Way of Buffalo & Erie County brings people, organizations and resources together to improve community well-being. Through program funding, community collaborations and strategic initiatives in the areas of education, financial stability and health and wellness, United Way helps children reach their full potential, adults and families achieve financial stability, and people of all ages achieve and maintain physical, social and emotional health.

For more information, visit www.uwbec.org.