The jubilation certainly was justified after an announcement was made that United Way has reached 94 percent of its $400,000 campaign goal. United Way's executive director, Patty Boone, didn't waste any time letting people know that the campaign's success translates into a brighter future for all who benefit from United Way. "With this amount, we will be able to allocate more funds to our member agencies," Boone said.
A number of awards were presented during the celebration, and many of them reflected the commitment that Lawrence County employers have to making the campaign a success. For instance, the top contributor recognition went to GM Powertrain/UAW Local 440/IBEW Local 16 for giving $163,096, which was $12,000 more than last year. Meanwhile, Visteon/IUE/CWA Local 907 was fittingly honored for the most improved effort after having stepped up contributions from $52,000 last year to $71,000. A campaign participation award went to Bedford Regional Medical Center for having the highest percentage of employee giving and participation.Lawrence County employers are further commended simply for providing the payroll deduction mechanism for giving to United Way. The mechanism makes giving easy, and a good share of the contributions made to the United Way comes through payroll deductions.
The speaker for Saturday's ceremonies was Indiana University football coach Terry Hoeppner, who said, "This isn't over yet (the campaign); we're not going to quit, not IU football or here tonight."
The intent obviously is for United Way to reach 100 percent of its goal. It's time for anyone who hasn't made the decision to contribute to now give the matter some thought. We've said it before, but it's a message worth repeating. The agencies served by United Way are deserving of support because, with it, human needs are met. Emergency and transitional housing is provided. Units of blood are collected. Individuals with disabilities are given a chance to work. Young people get the chance to learn leadership skills and develop character. These are but a few of the ways that your contributions to United Way make a difference in the lives of your family, friends and neighbors.
Here's a chance in help make sure that United Way, by reaching 100 percent of its campaign, comes through with 100 percent of its goals.
We think the agencies served by United Way of Lawrence County deserve your support.