The Wiregrass United Way has passed the $2 million mark as they proceed toward the goal they set back in July. This year’s annual campaign has a goal of $2,555,555.55. Currently, the campaign total is $2,027,319 which represents 79.33% of the goal.
Many area businesses are currently conducting their employee campaign with plans to conclude their efforts over the next several weeks. United Way supporters have added motivation this year to contribute. The local organization has been issued a two part challenge pledge and they are working hard to meet the challenge.
The Wiregrass Foundation has pledged to contribute $200,000 if the United Way reaches its’ goal. In addition, the foundation wanted to motivate the potential donors to participate this year. That is where the second part comes in. If the local United Way raises $2.6 million the Wiregrass Foundation will double their contribution and donate $400,000.
United Way officials are excited about the progress that is being made in the campaign. Walter Hill, Chief Executive Officer for the organization emphasized how generous individuals are each year. “Southeast Alabama is blessed with truly giving people who want to help those in need,” he said. “Everyone involved with the campaign is dedicated to seeing it through and doing whatever we can to reach the $2.6 million and receive the extra $400,000,” Hill added.
The annual fund raising effort runs each fall. Wiregrass United Way presently funds 37 health and human service agencies in Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry, and Houston Counties. Many of the agencies depend heavily on United Way dollars to provide programs and services throughout the year.
A team of forty-four local volunteers will meet with each of the 37 agencies during the funds distribution process. Upon completing the meetings they will then recommend to the Wiregrass United Way Board of Trustees how much money each agency will receive in 20008. Ninety-nine percent of the funds raised by Wiregrass United Way stay in the five counties. United Way has served the Wiregrass area since 1938. For more information contact Wiregrass United Way at 792-9661.