United Way goal reaches halfway mark

Summit County raises more than 50% of $11.4 million campaign

Published on Tuesday, Oct 30, 2007

Beacon Journal staff report

The United Way of Summit County's 2007 campaign has raised more than 50 percent of its $11.4 million goal.

''That puts us slightly ahead of where we've been in past years during the last week in October. We're on the right track,'' said Michael Gaffney, United Way spokesman. ''We're feeling very comfortable about where we are and we're confident we're going to reach our goal.''

Last year's campaign fell short $450,000 of the $11.5 million goal. That drop, however, was anticipated because of changes in accounting procedures and the loss of Wadsworth, which became part of the United Way of Medina County after the 2005 campaign.

That year, the $11.6 million campaign goal was exceeded by $30,000.

In 2004, the campaign fell short, raising 97 percent of its $11.75 million goal.

Gaffney credits stronger corporate United Way drives with this year's success. Most of the workplace campaigns are expected to be completed by the end of November. Donations received after that will come primarily from individual donors.

''We would love for people to give as much as they're able to,'' Gaffney said. ''We appreciate all that people do to make our campaigns successful.''

The kickoff event for the 2007 campaign was a breakfast in August, featuring former Indians player Andre Thornton. Other events have included a two-day Chickenfest in Barberton and the annual Corporate Basketball Skills Competition.

Currently there are 101 programs at 49 affiliated agencies that receive funding through United Way. The programs focus on improving lives in four impact areas attaining independence, improving health and wellness, reinforcing basic needs and building successful children and families.

Donations can be made at http://www.uwsummit.org./