Eaton Corp.'s Galesburg, Mich., facility received the "Spirit of Michigan" award from the Michigan Association of United Ways. Eaton contributed a total of $550,000 to the association in 2011.

"The Spirit of Michigan award recognizes companies that deliver extraordinary results in improving education, income and health in local communities," says Scott Dzurka, president and CEO of MAUW. "The awardees are selected for their leadership and generosity focused on improving Michigan communities and advancing the common good through corporate and employee engagement."

Eaton's Galesburg facility campaign for the Greater Kalamazoo United Way totaled $315,000, up 31% from the nearly $241,000 pledged in 2010.

"The campaign was a true team effort that included raffles, special fundraising events and a family fun night," says Joan Blanchard, Eaton's United Way campaign chair in Galesburg. "We exceeded our goals for 2011 and have even more ambitious hopes for 2012."

The company won in the medium-sized business category (100-1,000 employees), and the award presentation took place during a legislative reception at the Capitol building in Lansing.

In addition to the United Way campaign, the Galesburg Community Support Committee directed Eaton Powering Community Grants of $235,000 in 2011 and encouraged volunteer hours for many agencies throughout Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties.

Some of the agencies receiving grants and volunteer support include Family and Children Services, March of Dimes, The Irving S. Gilmore Piano Festival, Housing Resources Inc., Greater Kalamazoo Girls on the Run, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Parent to Parent of Southwest Michigan, Gryphon Place, Junior Achievement and numerous others.