School districts raise $42,000 for United Way

Awards were presented at the recent Cape Girardeau/Jackson football game for school districts' efforts in raising money for the 2004 United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign. The United Way Spirit Award was presented to Jackson School District students for raising the most funds per student for a total of $10,510, representing $2.31 per student, a $667 increase over last year. A trophy was presented to the Jackson School District employees and students for the largest increase in total dollars raised over the 2003 campaign, an increase of $1,081, for a total of $20,408.

Scott City took home the trophy representing the school district with the largest per capita giving level among staff of $27.80 per employee.

Total dollars raised by the school districts included Cape Girardeau, $19,204; Jackson, $20,408; and Scott City, $3,162, for a total of $42,774.

"This is a significant effort on the part of many administrators, teachers, parents, and students," said Nancy Jernigan, executive director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri.

The contest was created five years ago. In 2000, Scott City was welcomed to the competition. In 2001, two additional awards involving students and encouraging increases in giving were added.

The 2004 campaign goal is $1,000,000, the highest goal in the United Way of Southeast Missouri's 50-year history. Contributions can be made by phone at 334-9634, by mail at 1858 Broadway, Cape Girar-deau, Mo. 63701; or on the Web site www.unitedwayofsemo. org. All funds raised are invested locally in Southeast Missouri.