School districts raise more than $46,000 for United Way

The United Way of Southeast Missouri created a contest six years ago between Cape Girardeau and Jackson schools' staff and students to motivate giving, caring and sharing. In 2000 Scott City joined the competition and in 2001 two additional giving awards were added: highest average gift per student and largest total campaign increase over the previous year.

Following tradition, the awards for raising money for the 2005 United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign were presented to local school districts at the annual Central /Jackson football game.

Raising money this year was particularly challenging with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on everyone's mind, United Way officials said.

Jackson School District students were presented the United Way Spirit Award for raising the most funds per student for a total of $10,455, which represents $2.29 per student.

Cape Public Schools employees and students were presented the trophy for the largest increase in total dollars raised over the 2004 campaign, an increase of $2,750.46, for a total of $21,573.46.

Scott City School District took home the trophy representing the school district with the largest per capita giving level among staff of $24.47 per employee.

Total dollars raised by the school districts were: Cape Girardeau, $21,573.46; Jackson, $21,768.05; and Scott City, $2,790 for a total of $46,131.51. Nancy Jernigan, executive director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri said, "This is a significant effort on the part of many administrators, teachers, parents, and students."

The United Way of Southeast Missouri 2005 campaign goal is $1,050,000. Contributions can be made by calling 334-9634; by mail, 1858 Broadway, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63701; or on the Web site at www.unitedwayofsemo.org. All funds raised are invested locally in Southeast Missouri. The United Way of Southeast Missouri is dedicated to making a measurable impact in the communityby focusing on the causes of the most serious problems. For more information, visit www.unitedwayofsemo.org.