How do I Join a Giving Society?
Leaders in Giving
Giving Societies
Membership in the Giving Societies at United Way of Greater Cleveland offers opportunities to create sustainable change in our community and engage your Philanthropic spirit. Committed supporters who donate annual gifts of $1,000+ to our annual campaign help provide resources to improve the lives and wellbeing of Greater Clevelanders.
Choose a giving society that’s right for you!
United Way of Greater Cleveland takes pride in the Red Feather Society, which recognizes our most generous donors, who annually contribute $50,000+. In 1945, the red feather was chosen as the national symbol for Community Chests, a forerunner of the modern United Way. Red feather pins were awarded to donors and worn proudly as a sign of a commitment to their community. The Red Feather Society is named in honor of our humble beginnings and last year members raised more than $3 million for our annual campaign.
- Elevated and profound impact on Cleveland’s communities in need
- Recognition in our publications as one of United Way’s top and most distinguished supporters
- Exclusive access to insider United Way information through our Give for Good newsletter.
- Fellowship with other Red Feather Society members, including prominent local leaders and CEO’s
- Regular updates from our CEO on the impact of your gift and local issues affecting our county
- Personal staff to assist with your gift and designations
- Invitations to exclusive United Way events, including a private recognition reception for our Red Feather Society members
- Advance notice and early registration to United Way events
- Access to all Philanthropist and Humanitarian Society events, news, and benefits
- All members will proudly receive a Red Feather pin to commemorate their gift
- Sharon Sobol Jordan, United Way of Greater Cleveland
- Vanessa Whiting, AES Management Services
The Philanthropist Society recognizes our donors who annually give between $10,000 and $49,999. Originating in the 1970s, this group is the founding giving society at United Way of Greater Cleveland and continues to grow each year. The Philanthropist Society was established with the fundamental belief that a better future is possible for all Greater Clevelanders and our members provided than $2.8 million in support of our annual campaign.
- Elevated and profound impact on Cleveland’s communities in need
- Recognition in our publications as one of United Way’s top and most distinguished supporters
- Exclusive access to insider United Way information through our Give for Good newsletter.
- Fellowship with other Philanthropist Society members, including prominent local leaders and CEO’s
The Humanitarian Society honors individuals who annually give $1,000 to $9,999. With more than 1,900 members, the Humanitarian Society is United Way’s largest giving society, collectively contributing more than $4 million each year.
Humanitarian Society members know that a vision for a more equitable Northeast Ohio is only possible by working together hand-in-hand. With each dollar donated, we are making our home a better place for everyone! Not only addressing the basic needs of individuals but also driving community-wide change.
Our Bronze Level Humanitarian Society Members, giving $1,000-$2,499 annually receive the following recognition:
- Regular Good News e-newsletters, highlighting the impact of your support.
- Invitations to Community Conversations, a series of virtual public forums to share and dialogue on issues affecting Northeast Ohio and beyond.
- Bi-annually Community Investment Updates, a digital publication that includes important information from our grantee partners, updates on strategic initiatives and how your dollars are hard at work in our community.
- Invitation to our Campaign Celebration for your family and friends at the Cleveland Metropark Zoo.
- Yearly recognition event at Progressive Field for you, your family, and friends.
- Recognition in our yearly digital donor publication.
Our Silver Humanitarian Society Members, giving $2,500-$4,999 annually receive everything listed above plus
- Recognition in our yearly print donor publication. You will also receive a copy in the mail.
- Invitation to special Humanitarian Networking events throughout the year.
Our Gold Humanitarian Society Members, giving $5,000-$9,999 annually receive everything listed above plus
- A Private recognition celebration with Humanitarian Society Co-Chairs.
- Kip Bollin, Thompson Hine
- Gary Poth, KeyBank
Thanks to the generosity and leadership of our society members United Way has worked to create a more prosperous and equitable region for all of us.
Donor Spotlight
Heath Monesmith
For Heath Monesmith, philanthropy is an extension of what it means to be a teammate and leader. “I believe in great teamwork,” he says. “Being part of a team means supporting one another, not just at work but in the world as well. We are all woven into our communities, and philanthropy is a means of giving back and being a great teammate.”
Interested in Learning More?
Contact Monica Ghose, Director, Donor Engagement and Stewardship, at mghose@unitedwaycleveland.org or 216-436-2184.
