Over the last year, UCLA has redefined its commitment to the community. With more than 150 service and outreach programs, the involvement of one-third of UCLA students in volunteer work and the establishment of five Community Education and Resource Centers in low-income areas, the university is dedicated to doing all it can to serve fellow Angelenos.

But it is not enough. In a city where there are more high-income households than anywhere else in the nation, one in three children lives in poverty. That's why UCLA has partnered with United Way of Greater Los Angeles to join resources to achieve a shared community vision.

Like UCLA, United Way has a new community agenda that is focused on impacting the most pressing issues affecting quality of life and future success for the city's neediest - to build better educated, more self-sufficient and healthier communities.

"We must fund those smaller, local charities struggling on the front lines against poverty," said Joe Haggerty, president of United Way of Greater Los Angeles, a nonprofit charitable fund, which annually distributes millions of dollars to 250 local charities. "We hope thousands of other donors will join us in our new community agenda."

The UCLA community can do its part to end the cycle of poverty and invest in the future of the city and its residents by donating to the organization during the 2001 United Way Campaign, taking place April 2-15. Donors may also single out individual organizations for their gifts.

"Contributions to the United Way assist this vital organization in its ongoing efforts to improve the lives of the less fortunate," said Chancellor Albert Carnesale. "Whether you make a one-time contribution or opt for ongoing payroll deduction, I hope you will join me in supporting this critical endeavor."

Donation packets have been sent to all faculty and staff, including information on the community agenda, a list of all the charities United Way supports and a gift form.