United Way talks about volunteer opportunities at Cape business event

Business leaders were encouraged to get involved with the United Way's educational efforts during the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce's First Friday Coffee.

Nancy Jernigan, executive director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri, encouraged businesses to adopt a policy that allows employees to volunteer during work hours.

She spoke about the importance of mentoring programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and Read to Succeed, which are both seeking volunteers.

Jernigan asked people to support education initiatives, including the chamber's Partners in Education program where businesses contribute both financially and through volunteer hours to a local school.

"To have a good quality of life, you must have a good education or training to allow you to be self-sufficient," she said.

The United Way has completed a mobilization plan to outline its education initiatives that can be viewed on its website, www.unitedwayofsemo.org by clicking the education tab.

The organization kicked off its 2011-2012 fundraising campaign recently with a goal of raising $950,000 this year to support more than 50 programs at 36 agencies in Southeast Missouri.

Pertinent address:

133 N. Sprigg Street, Cape Girardeau, MO