United Way Giving Campaign underway

The United Way's Community Giving Campaign is officially underway. It kicked off around 6:30 A.M. on Monday with the lighting of the LED torch in Hart Plaza.

Several community members were out there to take part in the big event. Several members of the United Way were there, as well as Mayor Mike Duggan and a woman who has been helped by the United Way,

For the first time, the torch was lit without gas. Instead, it was lit with LED lights. It symbolizes hope and dedication, and is a tribute to the generosity of those who live in Detroit.

Last year's goal was to raise $42 million for the United Way. They ended up raising $45 million and they are hoping to raise that much again this year. The money raised will help families with education, nutrition, and other financial responsibilities so that they can make Detroit one of the top five places to live in the nation by 2030.

"We have certainly lived through very challenging, difficult times, and we still have difficult times ahead of us, but the work that this organization does is really instrumental in helping to turn this city around," said Herman B. Gray, president and CEO of United Way.

The LED torch will remain lit in Hart Plaza throughout the duration of the campaign reminding people to give and make a difference.