UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN MORE THAN HALF WAY TO GOAL OF $525,000

The Area Wide United Way has raised over half of its $525,000 goal for its 1996 campaign.

So far, the organization has received over $265,000 in donations, most of which come from employee groups of small businesses and corporations.

"The giving is up slightly from last year," said Narvol Randol Jr., campaign chairman. "We're pretty much on track for reaching our goal this year."

The United Way allocates funds raised throughout the year to agencies which provide health and human services and programs. Nearly all contributions are kept within the community.

"Support for the United Way in this community is something its citizens should be proud of," said Nancy Jernigan, executive director for the Area Wide United Way. Jernigan said over 20 local agencies currently receive funds from the United Way.

The 1996 campaign goal is higher than it has been in the past. Jernigan said there are two basic reasons for the higher goal.

"The goal is based on two things," said Jernigan. "First, it's based on the needs of the agencies in the community. The needs increase every year, especially as the government is giving less and less each year.

"(The goal) is also based on the capacity of the community to give. We believe there is great potential in this community for giving more, and we're hoping to tap into that."

Jernigan said the general deadline for the campaign is early December. If most of the contributions are in by this time, she said, then the committee can sit down and go through the allocation process. Although there is a general deadline, the campaign never really ends, she said.

The Community Caring Council has identified 93 agencies that provide health and human services in the area. Jernigan said the United Way hopes to develop relationships with more of these organizations this year.

"This year, we are considering funding some organizations a one-time grant," she said. "The United Way would like to develop some sort of relationship with all of them.

"It's not just about giving money, but providing overall help."

Donations may be made to the United Way by calling 573-334-9634.