Orianna Mahoney, employee benefits and development manager in human resources at San Joaquin County, opened a county workplace giving kickoff by saying, "We are really excited to launch this campaign," and described a long partnership with the United Way.

Mahoney said employees can contribute through payroll deductions and either designate a nonprofit of their choice or allow United Way to disperse funds based on community needs. "You can make your contributions through payroll deductions, which makes it really simple and easy," she said.

The event included endorsements from elected officials. Paul Canapa, county supervisor representing District 2 and board chair this year, urged staff participation and said he accepted a challenge from a colleague to give. "So not only am I gonna do it, but I challenge, every employee in San Joaquin County...to give to the United Way and to our local nonprofits," Canapa said.

Other supervisors and county leaders voiced support. Supervisor Gardia recalled United Way's role while he was a Stockton firefighter and said he resumed contributions after being elected. Jennifer Goodman, director of human resources, said she has contributed for 29 years and encouraged employees to "start small, growing with the county, and growing your contribution in support of United Way." County Administrator Sandy Regalo reiterated the payroll-deduction option and the choice to direct donations or let United Way allocate funds where needed.

Mahoney also said the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors "officially proclaimed November as workplace giving month," and noted more than 40 years of employee participation in the United Way campaign. The transcript contains that proclamation language but does not record a motion, vote tally, or additional procedural details associated with the proclamation.

Speakers framed the campaign as an easy way for county staff to expand support for people in need and set an aspirational fundraising goal. "If every staff gives even a little, the reach will make a huge impact to those in need," Mahoney said, adding the county hoped to reach record-breaking campaign contribution levels this year and in future years.

The campaign provides two primary options for employees: payroll deductions that continue over time and one-time or directed gifts to specific local organizations. Mahoney named local recipients that county staff have supported and Goodman cited "Mary Grama Graham's Foundation" and "Saint Mary's dining room" as examples mentioned during remarks.

Officials closed by urging staff to participate in whatever way fits them, with several supervisors emphasizing small, sustained contributions rather than large one-time gifts. The transcript ends with Mahoney reiterating the county's partnership with United Way and urging employees to join the campaign.