United Way surpasses campaign goal

The United Way of Southeast Missouri met and exceeded its fund-raising goals in 2006, and those who depend on the group's services will benefit this year.

"It is going to have a greater impact. We're getting more focused and understanding better our opportunities to work in the community," said Nancy Jernigan, executive director of United Way of Southeast Missouri.

The $1.17 million raised in the 2006 campaign will give 38 agencies the funds they need to support 48 programs helping children, families, elderly and the disabled.

Programs assisted by the United Way include Big Brothers Big Sisters, Girl Scouts, Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

New to United Way in 2007 is Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship, which provides physical therapy and builds confidence for children with mental and physical disabilities.

"You put them on horses, and it's amazing the changes that take place," Jernigan said.

In 2007, United Way will also expand its LIFE Family initiative. The program designed to aid students at risk of failing school will be expanded from Cape Girardeau to include three schools in Jackson. The program is funded at $127,500 in 2007.

Jernigan said the largest change is a shift to focus on looking for ways to help existing programs collaborate to target groups in need. She listed at-risk children and the southern part of Cape Girardeau as two groups who will benefit from more targeted attention.

tgreaney@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245