The owners of a group of buildings in Downtown Syracuse are joining forces with The United Way in a fundraising effort to support 70 local programs that provide necessary services to city residents. On Wednesday they officially launched the “Give Where You Live” campaign. Tenants and residents of Commonspace will see their monthly donations to the United Way matched by their landlords. United Way President Nancy Eaton says the effort is an innovative way downtown residents can ensure quality of life for those who are less fortunate.
“We want to make sure that people in this community can live, healthy, happy lives. So, United Way ensures that services are available… and what Troy and Joe are doing with their tenants is a really powerful way and easy way to make a difference for people in this community.”
Commonspace is spread out to 3 different residential buildings and includes Commonspace Work for Commercial tenants. Co-Owner Troy Evans says this is an opportunity for social working and living spaces to give back to the community.
“So, when are tenants move in, we encourage them to sign-up. They go to this link one time; they can do a one-time donation or they can do a monthly recurring donation which comes right out of their checking account and then we match some of that donation, as well.”
Commonspace has committed to match donations up to a combined $500 donation per tenant monthly. 25 have already signed up. Michael Sgro is a tenant Commonspace Work and is featured in the “Give Where You Live” promotional video on social media.
“I’m one of those people in Central New York is OK with us being number one in terms of snowfall but, I’m not OK with us being number one in child poverty. When you give dollars to United Way of Central New York, these folks are making sure that those dollars are being spent in the best possible way.”
The United Way is hoping the program could expand to other downtown residential and workplaces. For more and to see the video click here