United Way of Central Oklahoma announced its 2021 fundraising campaign total during the organization’s annual meeting on Thursday, Feb. 24. Led by campaign co-chairs David and Aimee Harlow, the campaign raised a grand total of $17,842,243 in contributions from more than 19,000 generous donors and 600 workplace campaigns to support health and human service programs throughout central Oklahoma.

“Our theme for this year’s campaign was ‘Life Is a Gift,’ and in reflecting on this profound statement, we realize that one of the greatest gifts is having the loyal support of such an incredible community,” said Debby Hampton, President and CEO of United Way of Central Oklahoma. “Thanks to the dedicated leadership of our campaign co-chairs David and Aimee Harlow and the generous support of each donor, corporate partner and volunteer, we are proud to have surpassed our campaign goal, ensuring our Partner Agencies have the funding necessary to pass the gift of life on.”

The $17.8 million campaign total was the culmination of 12 campaigns and initiatives that occurred throughout the year as described below. United Way of Central Oklahoma ensures that all contributions comply with our proven standards of program and donor accountability.

• United Way of Central Oklahoma – $14,062,821 contributed to support 55 Partner Agencies serving central Oklahoma.
• State Charitable Campaign – $312,823 contributed through State of Oklahoma employee campaigns.
• Heart of the City Campaign – $526,200 contributed through City of Oklahoma City employee campaigns.
• United Way of Canadian County – $190,272 contributed to support 17 Partner Agencies serving Canadian County.
• United Way of Logan County – $190,090 contributed to support 11 Partner Agencies serving Logan County.
• Combined Federal Campaign – $95,300 contributed through federal employee campaigns.
• EmbraceOKC – $525,000 contributed to support behavioral health improvements in Oklahoma City Public Schools.
• Donor Directed – $561,815 contributed by donors and directed to specific United Way of Central Oklahoma Partner Agencies through board-approved programs.
• Restricted Grants – $75,000 contributed to support specific initiatives as outlined by grant agreements.
• Endowment Gifts – $277,143 contributed to support United Way of Central Oklahoma’s Endowment. The long-term goal for this fund is to cover operating expenses, allowing every donated dollar to be 100% committed to funded programs and initiatives.
• COVID-19 Response Fund – $5,779 contributed to support United Way Partner Agencies in addressing COVID-19 related needs.
• ARPA Funds via City of Oklahoma City – $1,000,000 contributed from American Rescue Plan Act to be administered to United Way Partner Agencies in OKC adversely affected by COVID-19.

The success of the 2021 fundraising campaign will be celebrated at the 21^st annual United Way Gala on April 4 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. During the event, award winners, volunteers and Partner Agencies will be recognized for their tremendous efforts during 2021.