J.F. Ahern, Mid-States Aluminum pace United Way campaign drive

"As this year's Pace Setters, these local businesses have made an important commitment to United Way and to our community," said Ken Hall, president of the local United Way's board of directors, in a news release. "Together, we will work to influence the charitable support needed from across all community businesses and citizens."

All donations and pledges made during the campaign drive will stay in Fond du Lac to support next year's programs for the benefit of the entire community, Hall said.

"We are very excited to have J.F. Ahern serve as a Pace Setter for United Way this year," said Tripp Ahern, J.F. Ahern chief executive officer.

Fond du Lac Area United Way has established a 2010 fundraising goal of $751,137.

"We've always been very supportive of United Way and serving as a Pace Setter this year is one more way of giving them our support," said Steve Peterson, president and CEO of Mid-States Aluminum.

The 2009 United Way campaign raised $715,000, short of the $1 million goal.

"These two companies are longtime supporters of the United Way, both financially and through time and talents donated by staff members," said Hall. "We look forward to working with them both to launch a successful kickoff in September."

United Way Executive Director Tina Potter said leadership by the Pace Setter corporations is crucial for success of the campaign.

"Pace Setters work together to achieve two main goals - create awareness of the campaign drive and set the fundraising pace for achieving a successful campaign," said Potter. "Both companies have campaign teams in place and will work together to plan events to create awareness throughout the community."