UNITED WAY GIVES 'SPIRIT' AWARDS

The Area United Way marked a 10 percent increase in fundraising for last year during its annual meeting Thursday while honoring one person and two organizations for their special contributions that have stretched over several years.

By raising $900,000 last year for the 32 area agencies that it serves, United Way showed that it continues to be a local leader in meeting a variety of needs, said Nancy Jernigan, executive director.

The organization also introduced three new awards to honor long term commitments.

Spirit of giving'

Harry Rediger, a United Way board member for 18 years, received this year's "spirit of giving" award.

Rediger, who was fundraising campaign chairman for three years, said he originally had only planned to live in Cape Girardeau for three years. But that was 25 years ago.

"It just kind of grew on me," Rediger said.

His commitment to United Way has grown since he has seen it as the best way to serve many needs through one organization.

Spirit of community'

Proctor & Gamble was awarded the "spirit of community award." The company's donation record, which averages over $100 per employee, has been phenomenal, Jernigan said.

The award is a confirmation of the company's community efforts, said Harry Stahlman, public affairs manager.

"Our goal as long as I have been here has been to meet 30 percent of the community's goal," Stahlman said. "Most years we have been able to do that."

Spirit of caring'

The American Red Cross received the "spirit of caring" award as a United Way agency that works collaboratively with other local agencies and demonstrates strong volunteer support.

"We are led by volunteers," said Mary Burton, executive director of the Southeast chapter of the American Red Cross.

The gathering of 130 was also addressed by Quentin Wilson, cabinet director for Missouri Gov. Bob Holden. Wilson spoke on the partnership between government and nonprofit organizations.