Why Giving Counts

My sister died on December 21, 2008 while receiving dialysis for kidney failure. She had previously been on dialysis for 5 years; then was fortunate to receive a kidney at Johns Hopkins Hospital, which lasted for 5 years and the year she passed, had been on dialysis again for one year. I have been giving contributions to the Kidney Foundation since she started taking dialysis.

I really enjoyed participating in the campaign especially being able to serve as a coordinator. It made me fight harder to get my staff to participate and reach our goal because I felt that this was another way for me to keep her memory alive through giving. She was always a giver through church events, her neighborhood, and various helping organizations. It didn’t matter what organization the staff gave to, it was just the idea that their donation/pledge was going to make a difference in someone’s life. Thanks for the opportunity.

Phyllis Polston
Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

It was truly a fulfilling experience to be the 2008 Loaned Executive for the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) I enjoyed helping other State employees understand the importance of our campaign and how our donations are used to help our families, friends and fellow Marylanders. The 2008 campaign was a reminder of how State employees take Public Service to heart. As we experienced furloughs and temporary salary reductions, DJS exceeded our goal by 31%. It proved to me that State employees are wonderful, caring people who believe in the “One Maryland” concept!”

Kim R. Bones
Loaned Executive
Department of Juvenile Services

It is a blessing to be a blessing to others!

Anonymous Leadership Donor
Department of Juvenile Services

Phyllis Polston
Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

I always give my donation to the Salvation Army. I remember as a child, that my dad, who served in the European Theater for four years, said the Salvation Army did more for the soldiers than anyone else. He never forgot their kindness and remembered them every year with a donation. I have tried to carry on his tradition.

Terry Aylsworth
Executive Administrative Assistant
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
University of Maryland Baltimore County

I have volunteered as a Regional Coordinator with the Maryland Charities Campaign for the past 6 years. MCC inspires me to help others who are in need. MCC touches the lives of many Marylanders. Over the years, MCC was a great support to two of my family members. My desire has always been to help others as I travel through life. Children have always held a special place in my life and they give me the extra energy to go above and beyond.

It touches my heart to know that all the time and effort that my coworkers and I have put into to raising donations for MCC have benefited those in need.

Vivian Hockaday
Regional Coordinator
Department of Juvenile Services