UNITED WAY EXPANDS WITH SCOTT CITY; BOARD TARGETS CAMPAIGN GOAL OF $447,000

The Area Wide United Way has expanded its area to include Scott City, in addition to Cape Girardeau and Jackson for the coming year.

At a meeting Wednesday, officials with United Way also announced the campaign goal of $477,000, and two new agencies, Civil Air Patrol and VIP Industries, will receive funds from the campaign.

The campaign officially kicks off on Sept. 2.

Bob Robins, president of the board of directors, explained that Scott City has not had a United Way organization.

"All the participating agencies are required to serve those who come for help. Many of those clients come from the Scott City area," Robins said.

He said talks ensued with members of the Scott City Chamber of Commerce, and Scott City was officially added. A new member will be named to the United Way board of directors from Scott City.

"The United Way campaign is one of the most important activities in the community," said Felecia Blanton, communications chairman for the campaign. "It is vital to so many agencies."

The Area Wide United Way provides money to 26 agencies, including the two new agencies.

At $477,000, this year's campaign goal is $7,000 higher than last year.

"We are in hopes of exceeding this goal," said Pat Allen, campaign chairman. "We look at it as a challenge."

Allen explained that again this year "loaned executives" will be working with the United Way to help make calls on businesses and other potential donors. Five individuals have been signed on as loaned executives. Their companies have allowed them time away from their jobs to work with the United Way.

Robins added, "United Way is a volunteer organization with only two staff persons. The local board also makes all the decisions about where the funds are distributed."

Allen said, "A lot of people in our area have been touched by the agencies of United Way. For example, the Red Cross, we might think of disasters or blood, but look at all the children who have learned to swim."