Almost reaching goal is a relief for area United Way

By DAVID J. COEHRS

Enterprise Staff Writer

"Almost" does not count only with horseshoes and hand grenades.

For the United Way of Fulton County, almost reaching its 2009 campaign goal is somewhat of a relief in the midst of a slumping economy that has wreaked havoc upon charitable businesses and individuals.

"It certainly wasn't what we ultimately wanted, but with the situation not improving over the last year, obviously, things could have been much worse for us," Director Gina Saaf said.

A total of $243,000 was collected, $22,000 short of the intended goal. Still, Saaf said the agency was pleasantly surprised.

"I think people were trying to dig a little bit deeper. It really helped," she said.

Although donations from area school employees, small organizations and small businesses increased slightly, to $22.500, a decline was noted in industrial employee campaigns. Saaf attributed that, in part, to layoffs and closures.

"Less places to get things from, and less people, unfortuantely result in less money and more need, she said.

Even with the downsize, area industry contributed approximately $133,000.

Residential contributions remained level at $37,800.

Saaf said United Way set its goal higher last year to meet a bigger and more visible need within the county. Donations currently support 25 local agencies and five internal programs.

In addition to campaign contributions, the agency will receive more than $45,000 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Emergency Food and Shelter Program. The funds will be used exclusively to offset food pantries and emergency assitance programs.

"It's been incredibly busy this year. The need is huge right now," Saaf said. "Hopefully, things will get better before the new campaign. It's getting rough."

She said, thankfully, the agency didn't have to make across-the-board cuts for 2010, and worked to limit cuts to essential services.

The 2011 campaign will begin in August, although United Way has not yet determined a monetary goal. As in recent years, the campaign will likely be extended to the end of December.

United Way 2009 Board President Garrett Tinsman said the outcome was pleasing, since no one knew quite what to expect.

"Participation was at very high levels, and I think it's because people understood the need out there. It's not hard to look out there and see that people are hurting," he said.

He looks forward to another positive campaign this year, saying, "We always like to build on past successes."

Applications for the upcoming campaign are being accepted through April.