FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

United Way stretching to meet needs

Campaign nears 80% of goal; books close Feb. 1

Chillicothe, OH (December 27, 2007)With a month left to finish their job, United Way Campaign volunteers are contacting loyal donors who may have been missed in earlier efforts, as well as businesses and residents who may be new to the community and unaware of the campaign. “We are counting on these contributors to help us reach our goal and, in turn, fund programs that are helping children and youth achieve their potential, promoting financial stability and independence, and improving people’s health,” says Community Campaign Chairman Bob Gallagher.

Currently, $573,744 in gifts and pledges have been collected, representing 79.1% of the $725,000 campaign goal.  The 2007 campaign books will close February 1, 2008.  However, contributions are accepted at any time. 

Gallagher, who heads the campaign cabinet of five divisions and nearly 100 volunteers, is the director of Ross County Job & Family Services. In this post, he is well-positioned to see and understand the needs and services of the 18 agencies that receive funding from the annual campaign. “The programs offered and people served by these agencies are evidence that United Way is changing lives right here in Ross County.  By working with these agency partners and others, we can address the issues that impact our community and work on solutions that create lasting, positive changes,” he said.

This year’s campaign started later than usual because many of the corporate businesses now delay reporting their gifts and pledges until January, according to Mary Elsass, executive director, United Way of Ross County. “This later launch may have confused some donors or prompted them to postpone their usual contribution,” she noted.

For eligible 2007 tax-year deductions, checks must be signed before January 1, 2008. Pledge and payment options include cash, credit card, one-time or periodic direct billing, and online donations at www.unitedwayross.org.  For more information, contact United Way of Ross County, 53 East Second Street, 773-3280.