Message from the Chair

Dear Colleague,

I am delighted to have been appointed as Chair of the Stony Brook Cares (SEFA/United Way) Campaign 2008-2009. This is an exciting time when Stony Brook University employees can support charitable agencies through payroll donations or through a direct cash or check gift. 

This annual fundraising effort supports a network of local, national, and international community services all year long. The brochure from Long Island SEFA encompasses more than 450 charitable organizations from which you may select.

I recognize that charitable giving is a personal decision. This is why the Stony Brook Cares/SEFA campaign is an excellent opportunity for you to exercise your choice. SEFA was established so that you have the potential to choose the recipient of your donation.

Did you know that $1.00 per paycheck for one year will provide a one-month discount rate medication for a kidney disease patient? That is only $26.00 per year! $5.00 per pay period will provide 5 hours of home care for a disabled person. That amounts to a gift of $130.00 per year!

For those who are able, I ask you to consider joining the Leadership Club with a $10.00 donation per pay period (annual gift of $250 or more), Cornerstone Club with a $20.00 donation per pay period (annual gift of $500 or more), or the Pillars Club with a $40.00 donation per pay period (annual gift of $1,000 or more). A gift from a member of the Cornerstone Club may provide a village with clean, safe water from a well, while a gift from a member of the Pillars Club may save 50 severely malnourished children with a nutritional feeding kit.

As I mentioned, payroll deduction is the easiest method to support the charity of your choice. In this way, your charitable gift is spread out evenly throughout the year. Payroll deductions will begin with the first pay period of 2009 and will continue throughout the 2009 calendar year.

If you have been a past contributor to the Stony Brook Cares/SEFA Campaign, I ask that you renew your pledge this year, and if possible increase it. If you have not participated in the past, I ask that you consider looking through the brochure and see if there is a charity that touches your heart that you would like to support. Stony Brook University employees care and your contribution is the most effective way to show this and improve the quality of life for those less fortunate.

It is up to you. You can make the difference! Give because you care. 

With Sincere Thanks,

Peter M. Baigent, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs and
Associate Provost for Enrollment & Retention Management