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 As motorists pass the south side of the courthouse, the sign says it all. United Way achieved its 2007 fundraising goal of $86,000 to be divided among 15 nonprofit agencies. (Rachel Harper/Democrat-News) [Click to enlarge] |
The campaign started Sept. 12 and finished on Nov. 14, giving fundraisers a little over two months to collect money to be divided among 15 nonprofit agencies in the area that have 501(3)(c) status.
The agencies include Aware, Mid-Missouri American Red Cross Chapter, Butterfield Village Cellar, CASA, Community Food Pantry, Children's Mercy Hospital, Child Safe of Central Missouri, Foster Grandparents, Fitzgibbon Memorial Hospital Transportation, Marshall Senior Center, Mental Health Association of Saline County, Saline County 4-H Youth Development, Saline County Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol, Slater Senior Center and Sweet Springs Food Pantry.
The goal is determined by the local United Way Budget and Admission Committee, which is made up of local citizens. The committee meets with each agency's representatives to look at overall budget and considers community needs, agency needs and how to provide top-notch services at the lowest possible cost.
"We would really like to thank ConAgra and Cargill's employees because they were big supporters," said Mary Ann Gilpin, chief professional officer for United Way.
Two events used to help raise funds were Cargill Meat Solution's "big tent event" and the ConAgra vs. Cargill "throw down" soccer game.
Gilpin said the intent of the campaign is to help cut down on fundraising for agencies, so they can do the work needed to help the citizens of Saline County.
"The funds raised will not meet all of their needs, just part of them," she said.
United Way's mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities, according to its main Web site.
The organization works to help children succeed, strengthen and support families, promote self-sufficiency and build vital and safe neighborhoods.
United Way and their partners have engaged communities to change conditions in ways that improve lives, including enrolling children in low-income families in health insurance, addressing high dropout rates and improving the dental health of school-aged children.
"We would also like to thank the citizens, supporters and everyone else who helped us meet our goal," she said.
Gilpin said people can give donations all year long but the main campaign is in the fall. Donations made to United Way are tax- deductible.
The United Way office is located in the Municipal Court Building, 4 Eastwood in Marshall. Mailing address is PO Box 534, Marshall, MO 65340.
On the Net:
Contact Rachel Harper at