The United Way of South Hampton Roads has recognized Sentara Healthcare employees for becoming the first company to reach its $1 million goal for the 2011-2012 campaign. The total amount raised by members of the team at Sentara was $1,012,720.

Ray Darcey, president of Sentara Enterprises and 2011 United Way Chair, led several coordinators in baseball-themed fundraisers and events to raise money for United Way agency partners in the areas of education, financial stability and health in South Hampton Roads. David Bernd, CEO, got into the game, as well, lending his likeness to a cardboard cutout in a baseball uniform to help inspire others.

Along with donations, Sentara employees also gave their time during United Way’s 20th Annual Day of Caring in September. One hundred and seventy-five employees volunteered and participated in 14 job sites across South Hampton Roads. One team even worked to build a Habitat for Humanity home for a fellow Sentara Healthcare colleague, Kiska Morris, a rheumatology secretary at Sentara Leigh Hospital.

“When I think about it, I get emotional,” said Morris. “For a long time I wanted to own my home, somewhere I could raise my boys and take pride in something; to make it a safe and healthy place filled with love.”

Additional highlights from the Sentara employees’ 2011 campaign include:

• Largest growth in donations over the previous year (20.1 percent) — Optima Health
• Highest percentage of donors (48.26 percent) — Optima Health
• Highest percentage of goal attained (127.8 percent) — Sentara Enterprises
• First division to attain goal — Optima Health
• Second division to attain goal — Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center
• Third division to attain goal — Sentara Leigh Hospital

“Sentara’s employees’ belief in the work of United Way of South Hampton Roads via their contributions and volunteerism has definitely made a difference in the education of a child, in the financial stability of a vulnerable family, and in the health of our community,” said United Way Campaign Chairman Wick Moorman, CEO of Norfolk Southern Corp.