Giving Opportunity Through United Way

I began working for Comcast in 2000, so I’ve had some time to get to know the people I work with and the company I work for. One thing that has always stood out is the generosity of the employees I’ve come in contact with – and these past few weeks have proved that true once again.

We recently wrapped up our annual Employee Giving Campaign for United Way, and I am excited and honored to share that Comcast NBCUniversal employees collectively pledged nearly $8 million to help improve communities nationwide. Combined with more than $2 million in matching grants from the Comcast Foundation, our company is providing $10 million in total support, and that means hundreds of United Way affiliates that are in our very own communities will continue to thrive and help people who are most in need.

I know what it means to be on the receiving end of United Way’s help, and the opportunity it provides. That’s why I stepped up this year to share my experience and hopefully inspire my colleagues to participate in our campaign.

I was 9 years old when my family left Vietnam for Hong Kong, and two years later moved from there to Portland, Ore. Starting over was a huge challenge for my family and me. We lived in a one-bedroom apartment with my aunt and uncle. It was very cramped. Finding work was difficult for my mom and dad since there was a language barrier. For a time, my parents ended up picking berries each day to make ends meet.

I invite you to learn more about my story here.

I remember those difficult days – and also how United Way helped us out. They gave my mom boxes of food that included waffles. To this day, I love waffles and appreciate the taste of every bite.

Slowly, all our lives improved and I eventually started my own family. But I always remember how hard my parents worked to give my sister and me a good life, and how United Way helped make that possible. It’s important to me to give opportunity to families that need a hand today, and I am grateful my company gives me another way to do that through our campaign. I’m hopeful our employees continue to give in the coming years, and that each time they do, they know in their hearts that their money transforms the lives of people like myself.