United Way Calls Community to Action Make a Positive Impact and Change Lives
August 28, 2008
United Way of the Ozarks launched its Campaign Kick-off at 5:30 PM, August 28 at Hammons Field, acknowledged Pacesetter Companies and announced the 2008 campaign goal. Over 350 participants and sponsors attended the event. The Kick-off was sponsored by Associated Electric Cooperative; Commerce Bank; Cox Health; Great Southern Bank; and Shughart, Thomson & Kilroy.
United Way Campaign Chairman, John Wilson, stated, "Our community is one of the best in the world, and yet 47% of our public school students qualify for free or reduced meals at school. United Way helps more people in our community than any single health and human service organization, and today the need is greater than ever. Many of our friends, neighbors and perhaps even family members are one paycheck away from disaster. Job loss, illness or an accident can leave them destitute and homeless. United Way provides a safety net for our entire community. Why are we here if not to help others?"
Brad Toft, President & CEO of the Ozarks Regional YMCA says, "We are seeing a greater need for all of our services. In particular, the before and after school Prime Time Program. The economic pressures families are facing have created a greater need for direct assistance and the increase of dual income households." He goes on to say, "Many of our families would not be able to participate without the support of the United Way."
"If you want to find a barometer for the economy, just call a non-profit," says Pat Reiser, Executive Director of the Family Violence Center. "Our belts are cinched tighter than ever in an effort to ride out this storm. This is why United Way funds are so important to us: we provide safe shelter, purchase meals and pay utility bills too. We are relying on a successful campaign this year so we can continue our mission."
United Way announced its 2008 campaign goal at $3,516,000 during the Kick-Off. The campaign will run August 28 through November 6, 2008. Last year, the goal was $3,670,000, however due to economic conditions at the end of the year, there was additional loss on pledges, and the total raised for the 2007 campaign was $3,441,000.
United Way of the Ozarks traces its origins to 1930 when a group of committed people built upon the familiar spirit of giving by many for one goal. United Way's mission then and now remains the same: To increase the understanding of human needs and mobilize resources to meet those needs. Today the United Way's board and 2000+ volunteers help people by raising money and resources and allocating those funds to provide essential community assistance programs and services, fight hunger, promote and provide healthcare services, build leadership skills in children, and provide education and mentoring assistance to children and adults.