ANACORTES, WA -- United Way of Skagit County held their annual Campaign Celebration luncheon on January 21^st, and announced record-breaking contributions of $972,651 from the 2009 campaign.  At the same event, current board president Dan Berentson passed the presidential gavel to the 2010 incoming president, Sue Krienen, who is the General Manager of the Shell Puget Sound Refinery. 

“I am thrilled to be the new United Way President because of the tremendous positive impact United Way partner agencies have on the lives of people in Skagit County,” Krienen said. “Our partner agencies provide food, medical care and support for babies, children, adults and seniors. I hope everyone participates in the 2010 annual campaign because the need in Skagit County is greater than ever.”  

Puget Sound Refinery is one of several corporate “Pacesetters” who make pledges at the beginning of the annual campaign.  The refinery made a Pacesetter pledge of $175,000 for 2009, but by the end of the campaign, their contribution was in excess of $225,000. Over $93,000 came from employee pledges (which are matched by the Shell Corporation), $25,000 came from the Community Relations Committee and $7,965.00 came from refinery retirees.

“I am amazed by the generosity of both our employees and retirees” Krienen said.  “Even in these tough economic times, they continue to reach out and help others less fortunate in their community.” 

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