Leadership Giving: Pillar Society and Active Community Circle

What is the Pillars Society? The Pillars Society is a group of individuals and/or couples who demonstrate extraordinary concern for central Illinois and its citizens by donating $1,000 or more annually to the United Way. Gifts can be made through payroll deduction, direct payments or stocks/securities. Last year the Pillars Society had 859 members whose gifts totalled $1,651,656.

When a couple both work, can their gifts be combined to qualify them for Pillars Society membership? Yes! Couples may pledge at their workplaces, and if the combined pledges total $1,000 or more they are eligible. It is necessary to notify United Way of their pledges because if each individual gift does not total $1,000, the employer would not be aware of the eligibility.

Are Pillars Society gifts counted in employee campaign results? Most

definitely! Gifts through the Pillars Society significantly benefit the community and dramatically improve employee giving results.

Do Pillars Society members receive special recognition? Yes, they receive a distinctive, personalized award. There is also a reception for members each fall. Additionally, members who choose to be recognized have their names listed in a special membership brochure and in the Heart of Illinois United Way’s Annual Report. NOTE: All costs of the Pillars Society are underwritten by corporate sponsors, thus ensuring that the contributed dollars go to the services to which they are intended.

How do I become a Pillars Society member? Simply complete the Pillars Society pledge card provided, contact your employee campaign chair, or call the Heart of Illinois United Way at 309-674-5181, ext. 232.


NOTE: All costs of the Pillars Society are underwritten by corporate sponsors, thus ensuring that the contributed dollars go to the services to which they are intended.


What is the Active Community Circle? The Active Community Circle recognizes individuals and families who contribute $500 to $999 annually. Giving at this level is

the first step in establishing an exceptional commitment to the community. Many Active Community Circle members of today will become the Pillars Society members of tomorrow. Members, who choose to be recognized, have their names listed in the Heart of Illinois United Way’s annual report to the community.

How do I become a member of the Active Community Circle? Simply complete the HOIUW contributor’s card provided, contact your employee campaign chair, or call the Heart of Illinois United Way at 309-674-5181, ext. 232.

© 2007 Heart of Illinois United Way